Team Never Quit

Sleepless No More: Trauma, Recovery, and the Science of Sleep with Dr. Leah Kaylor In this eye-opening episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Dr. Leah Kaylor—a distinguished clinical psychologist whose expertise spans forensic mental health, trauma recovery, and the intricate world of sleep science. With a career built on helping those affected by trauma, Dr. Kaylor brings unique insights into how sleep disturbances intersect with mental health challenges and recovery. Here's what you can expect from our conversation: ·         Foundational Expertise: o    Dr. Kaylor earned her Master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she conducted forensic assessments for the Brooklyn Supreme Court. o    She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Saint Louis University, specializing in trauma-informed assessments and evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Processing Therapy and Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for survivors of sexual trauma. ·         Forensic and Crisis Intervention: o    Dr. Kaylor has administered forensic assessments and competency restorations for the Shelby County Justice System, demonstrating her ability to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and legal requirements. ·         Scholarly Contributions & Thought Leadership: o    With 5 book chapters and over 15 peer-reviewed journal articles to her name, she has significantly contributed to research on trauma, stress responses, sleep disorders, and mental health interventions. o    A respected speaker on national and international stages, Dr. Kaylor discusses topics ranging from the human stress response and EMDR to practical techniques for addressing sleep disturbances in trauma-impacted populations. ·         Deep Dive into Sleep Science: o    During her residency at the Memphis VA Medical Center, Dr. Kaylor honed her sleep-related expertise by working in the sleep clinic. Here, she helped active duty members and veterans overcome sleep disturbances by addressing issues such as sleep hygiene, nightmares, insomnia, and CPAP adherence. o    In our discussion, she reveals how proper sleep management plays a critical role in trauma recovery and overall mental health, sharing actionable strategies to improve sleep quality and resilience in high-stress environments. Join us as Dr. Kaylor unpacks the powerful connection between sleep and trauma recovery, offering a blend of clinical insights, practical sleep hygiene tips, and strategies to manage nightmares and insomnia. Whether you're a mental health professional, a veteran, or someone struggling with sleep issues, this episode is packed with knowledge to help you reclaim restful nights and resilient days. Tune in now for a transformative discussion on how quality sleep can pave the way for healing and recovery!  In this episode you will hear: • My dad sells drugs and my mom’s in prison. My dad is a pharmaceutical drug representative, and my mom is a dental hygienist in a maximum security all-male prion. (5:42) • Sexually violent predators are people who have committed some type of sex crime. They have been deemed to have some type of mental illness or defect, and there’s a belief that they will commit another sex crime. (15:59) • Whenever we sleep – if you’re a normal, average healthy sleeper, you should go through various sleep cycles. You should be cycling through light sleep, deep sleep, REM sleep and you’re gonna be cycling through these several times a night. (23:18) • REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, is most famous for having dreams. (23:44) • Folks who have problems sleeping – there are so many things you can to help yourself. (38:12) • Going to bed at the same time every night and waking up at the same time every morning. This is key. (39:4) • We are inducing our own jet lag when we go from 6am Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, then go down to 9am on Saturday and Sunday. The brain gets very confused.  (43:11) • I have been a psychologist for the FBI for 5 years now, and that entire time I will be helping people with trauma. I’m certified with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and brain spotting. I love those, but I also help people with sleep. (45:10) • In my work, folks experience things and see things that we should not be asking normal human beings to see. (47:04) • [Marcus] When you’re doing your job and you’re runnin’ and gunnin’ - no matter what it is - and it tarts creeping into your dreams, that means your database is full. (50:25) • Taking time to reflect either alone or with someone you trust: How is this impacting me? What’s happening? (51:36) • I have a book coming out on sleep coming out on sleep. It’s called The Sleep Advantage. (56:02) • If you’re really getting good sleep, it can impact your decision-making, and your reaction time. It can make you the best of the best; it can impact your performance. (57:01) Socials: -- https://www.drleahkaylor.com/ -- https://www.facebook.com/drleahkaylor  Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:   - shipsticks.com/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - strawberry.me/TNQ    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

Partnering with a True Hero – An Exclusive Conversation with Tom Smith In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Tom Smith, a decorated former NYPD detective with over 30 years of service, who has served on the FBI/NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force since the aftermath of September 11, 2001. Our discussion dives deep into Tom’s remarkable career—from his early days patrolling Harlem to high-stakes international investigations—and celebrates our proud partnership with 360 Security Services in the greater New York state area. Learn how 360 Security Services and Tom Smith join forces to leverage decades of experience and resources, ensuring client needs are met where and when they’re needed most. Tom’s journey started in 1990 with the NYPD, progressing from patrol officer in Harlem to detective in specialized units like Narcotics, Gang Investigations, and the Robbery Unit in The Bronx. In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, Tom was recruited for the elite FBI/NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force. Hear firsthand about the immense responsibilities of preventing another 9/11, the emotional toll of rescue and recovery at Ground Zero, and the harrowing experiences at the landfill. Discover Tom’s deployment to Afghanistan, where he played a critical role in the rescue of a kidnapped New York Times reporter by collaborating with international security agencies. Tom recounts the intense investigation of a school shooter threat in upstate New York—a case that struck close to home when the planned target list included friends of his own children. Get insights into Tom’s role as co-host alongside retired NYPD Sgt. Dan Murphy on the fast-growing true crime podcast, "Gold Shields." Tom Smith’s story is not only a testament to bravery and service, but also a compelling narrative of resilience, leadership, and dedication. Whether you’re interested in true crime, counter-terrorism, or inspirational career journeys, this episode is packed with real-life experiences and insights that you won’t want to miss.  In this episode you will hear: •  You can retire and you can be out of it, but that drive and what I’ve got in my DNA doesn’t leave. (5:56) •  My dad was my hero. (7:04) •  Watching him [my dad] come home every night with that gold shield that I used to steal, put on my belt and chase my sisters around. That was all I wanted to do. (7:09) •  I knew real young what I was gonna do with the rest of my life. (7:34) •  My dad told me “Listen, if your gonna do a job, do it great. Just do everything great you can with what’s in front of you. Whether you’re answering a phone or handling a homicide case. Just do it greet. (11:06) •  When I took the NYPD test, 85,000 people took that test. That’s how revered the NYPD was at that time. (13:08) •  Everyone [in the NYPD] was on the same page, and that’s how we got the city turned around from 3,000 homicides each year. (15:51) •  Going from NYPD detective – you know I’m not going to the Bronx. I’m getting dropped in the war zone. (31:08) •  I needed that trust [from an informant] and that relationship to get what I wanted. Did I use him? 100%. (37:17) •  One of the last things I did, which is another story you don’t hear a lot. I stopped a school sheeting from happening. My daughter was a senior there and my son was a freshman. (38:46) •  I went to catholic school. You had nuns who were the toughest women on this earth. (49:46) • [Marcus] That’s why they call ‘em nuns. They don’t take none of your shit (50:13) •  You get one shot in this life. You There’s no do-overs, no receipts, no returns. You get one shot to make an impression in your kids’ life. (55:21) Socials: -- https://thegoldshieldshow.com/about-us  -- Listen to Gold Shields Podcast here -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gold-shields/id1682240835 Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:   - shipsticks.com/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - strawberry.me/TNQ    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

Inside the Hidden Battle: Dr. Chris Frueh & Rob Sweetman on "Operator Syndrome" and Military Mental Health In this week’s compelling episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, we welcome Dr. Chris Frueh, a distinguished clinical psychologist, professor of psychology, and published author with over 30 years of experience working with military veterans and active-duty personnel. Dr. Frueh shares his extensive expertise drawn from decades of clinical trials, epidemiology, historical insights, and neuroscience research. Listen as he unpacks his groundbreaking work on “Operator Syndrome” and reveals how this paradigm-shifting concept is transforming our understanding and treatment of the complex health, psychological, and interpersonal challenges faced by those in military special operations. Extensive Expertise: Over thirty years of professional experience with military veterans and active-duty personnel. Academic & Clinical Leadership: Clinical Psychologist, Professor of Psychology, and co-author of more than 300 scientific publications, including a graduate textbook on adult psychopathology. Innovative Research: Pioneering work on “Operator Syndrome”—a framework addressing the interrelated challenges emerging from a career in military special operations Influential Voice: Dr. Frueh has testified before the US Congress and served as a contractor for organizations such as the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, US State Department, and the National Board of Medical Examiners. Media Presence: His insights have been featured in top publications and cited by outlets like the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Washington Post, Scientific American, and NBC News. Along with Dr Freud, Rob Sweetman brings much to the discussion. A former Navy SEAL with eight years of service, Rob faced numerous hidden injuries, including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Insomnia. The loss of a teammate to suicide became a turning point in his life, driving him to dedicate himself to the study of sleep science, determined to make a difference in the lives of others.  Whether you’re a veteran, a mental health professional, or simply interested in groundbreaking research that bridges military experience and psychology, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain valuable insights and join the conversation on advancing care for our military community. In this episode you will hear: • Through the military, the VA system, we’ve completely screwed the pooch with PTSD. We’ve put everything on PTSD. (6:47) •  Because we’ve put that reliance on PTSD, we’ve not attended to sleep, and sleep apnea.  (7:22) • We’ve failed a generation of soldiers. (8:01) • Soldiers injure their brains in 2 ways. Impact forces that cause a concussion, but also the blasts have a shearing effect. That scars the glial cells in the nervous system. (8:21) • We need to overhaul our approach to how we take care of soldiers, and by the way, this also affects first responders. (9:49) • Soldiers fight their wars overseas (so far). Responders are in the streets of their home town. (10:08) • We, and I say we as the medical establishment, of which I’ve been a part of for 30 years, we’ve fucked it all up. We’re not paying attention. (10:36) • We’ve put all the focus on the psychological without appreciating the physiological. (15:49) • There’s a lot of powers in the pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies, and the hospitals that control the actions of doctors. (23:01) • You can’t say that all sleep causes all mental [issues] and you can’t say that all mental health [issues] causes sleep health, but they’re definitely related. (24:55) • We still don’t have suicide figured out. (26:26) • You gotta have discipline. (32:22) • A hypnogram is how we measure sleep with brain wave activity. (41:57) • We have the best fighting force in the world. But we’ve been playing in the sand box of Iraq and Afghanistan. What’s gonna happen when we have our first word threat. When that pops up, are we gonna be ready? (51:45) • Mr. Hegseth’s number one mission is to improve the lethality of the war fighter. (56:26) • Last year, the VA spent 600 million dollars on suicide prevention efforts, that did not move the needle one little bit. (59:52) • The concept of Operator Syndrome is not a diagnosis, it’s a framework for understanding how they’re all interrelated. (63:25) • Your sleep affects your metabolism; it affects your hormone production. Testosterone is produced during sleep. Your brain health is affecting your sleep and your sleep is affecting your brain health. (63:38) Socials: - IG: Sleepgenius - https://ballastbooks.com/purchase/operator-syndrome/ Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:   - shipsticks.com/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - strawberry.me/TNQ    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

Into the Fire: Storytelling and Survival with Phil Donlon & Gabe Mann In this week’s Team Never Quit podcast, Marcus and Melanie dive deep into the art of storytelling—both on stage and in the heat of real-life danger. Our guests are two visionary filmmakers with unique, gripping perspectives on their craft: Phil Donlon, award-winning actor, filmmaker, and theater veteran, and Gabe Mann, director and cinematographer of the groundbreaking wildfire documentary Hotshot. Phil Donlon takes us through his journey from the blue-collar streets of Chicago to the bright lights of Hollywood. A founding member of The Gilead Theater Company and a passionate storyteller, Donlon shares his experiences acting in renowned theater productions, signing with WME, and ultimately finding creative fulfillment by writing and directing his own films. His latest project, High & Outside: A Baseball Noir, is now streaming worldwide. On the other end of the spectrum, Gabe Mann puts us directly in the line of fire—literally. His documentary Hotshot is a heart-pounding, first-person account of elite wildfire fighters who battle the flames without water, capturing their raw courage with breathtaking cinematography. After six years running alongside these real-life heroes, Mann shares the intensity, sacrifice, and unexpected pull of wildfire that changed his life forever. From the front lines of nature’s most destructive force, this episode is about the power of storytelling, survival, and the relentless pursuit of passion. Tune in for a conversation that will leave you inspired, shaken, and ready to chase your own fire. In this episode you will hear: • There’s something about when you witness wildfire firsthand. It does something to you. The actual firefighters call it “The Firebug.” It taps into something primal in men. I caught it. (6:00) • Most of the photojournalists who actually do this right, are former firefighters. They actually have that certification. But for the most part, the kinds of people who are reporting for the Washington Post or The New York Times – they have no clue. (7:56) • I’m a storyteller. So however I’m doing it, whether I’m an actor, whether I’m producing something, writing it – I just want to tell good stories. (9:46) • We wanted to make a film that played like a narrative feature. (11:15) • They’re so distracted with the climate change narrative, which really has nothing to do with wildfires. It’s the accumulation of fuel. (12:08) • I’m the only dude in LA who’s actually from LA. (12:37) • When you continue to put it on something that we don’t have control over – like the weather – it’s a completely disempowering narrative. (14:04) • A wildfire is composed of 3 things. It’s called a fire triangle. You need all 3: Drought, Fuel, Ignition. (17:02) • People were crying over all these giant Redwoods and Sequoias that were getting burned down back in 2020. And nobody ever asked the very obvious question. These trees are 2,000 years old, but the fire cycle in that forest is once every 300 years – you get a purging wildfire – How did get to be 2,000 years old? What happened 2,000 years ago that made these trees so robust? (17:39) • There’s some people who have this gene that compels them to serve their country. (25:32) • If we can get some people in Washington to see this film, I think we could help make change. (27:03) • We have agency over wildfire. We can be proactive. We could solve it tomorrow, if we know what we’re supposed to do. If we look at what a hotshot crew does – literally all they do is get rid of plants. They’re either cutting them or burning them. That’s it. They don’t use water. (28:05) • We started the film with a question. I think doing that gives people the opportunity to engage with the art in the appropriate way, which is – they answer the question. (47:34) • Our motto when we were making this film was “Show, don’t tell.” (52:22) • This is what art is for. It is for explaining and getting people to feel the things that you cannot adequately convey with words. Socials: Support HOTSHOT - https://www.hotshotmovie.com/ - https://www.instagram.com/teamsiqfuti/# - IG: phil.donlon Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:   - shipsticks.com/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - strawberry.me/TNQ    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

The Ultimate Sacrifice: Honoring Corporal Jason Dunham’s Legacy In this week's Team Never Quit Podcast, we learn the vivid details of the events leading up to the courage, love, and self-sacrifice made by Medal of Honor recipient, Corporal Jason L. Dunham of Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines in Karabilah, Iraq. What a leader by example Jason was - to the point of throwing himself onto a grenade in an effort to save his comrades. Marcus' guests, David Kniess (Veteran & Producer) and Lieutenant Colonel Trent Gibson (Dunham’s Company Commander), not only bring Jason's story to life, but discuss the compelling and engaging upcoming documentary - The Gift. The Gift documentary is a personal project for David, who had a chance meeting with Corporal Dunham. That chance meeting led to lifelong friendships with the Dunham family and a core group of Marines from Kilo Company. David is actively involved in the Veteran community and has volunteered his time, producing content for Veteran Organizations such as Beteran, Stop Soldier Suicide, John Preston Music, and The Boot Campaign. David also served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Normandy (CG-60), a guided missile cruiser.   In this episode you will hear: • Having the Dunham’s in my life has enriched my life. (10:52) • It’s not just about Jason; it’s about everything that has affected all of you all those years. (15:46) • Our generation and the younger generation is standing up and saying, “I’m not gonna wait for anyone. I’m gonna jump out there and teach guys how to surf, how to sing with dogs, start a podcast, and we’re talking about our shit. (22:44) • [With regard to this film], all I care about is what Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers think. For veterans who are still struggling, I want them to watch it and say “if these kid can do it, maybe I can do it too.” (26:44) • I want civilians to know what it’s like for young men & women to go to war. (27:23) • [Marcus] If somebody threw one of those “Thank you for service” lines at you – even if you haven’t done something – it’s coming…” (28:04) • I believe in 3 things as a Marine. I believe in leadership by example; I believe in self-sacrifice for the greater good; and one man can make a difference. (33:06) • Jason had the leadership qualities to lead a rifle squad of American sons. (37:39) • Any leader who inspires his subordinates through personal example, to then return the favor and take care of him – that’s a true leader. (47:06) • Dunham was a big boy. He’s not someone I would choose to grapple with. (54:38) • Jason took off his Kevlar helmet, placed in on the grenade, and then laid down on it. (64:41) • Knowing what I know of him now, he loved his marines so much. He didn’t just take care of them, he practiced taking care of them. Who fucking practices covering a live grenade with their helmet? (74:08) Socials: Support The Gift WatchTheGift.com https://www.facebook.com/THEGIFTDOCUMENTARY https://www.instagram.com/thegiftdocumentary/ Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - strawberry.me/TNQ   - shipsticks.com/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

Special Guest: Former Texas Governor Rick Perry Join Marcus and Melanie on this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast for an incredible conversation with former Texas Governor Rick Perry, as we dive into everything from rodeos to revolutionary treatments for veterans. Topics Covered: ✅ Best Bar-B-Que Spots – During a lively discussion about the best Bar-B-Que spots, the consensus was clear—Texas is home to some of the best Bar-B-Que in the world. Many memorable places were mentioned: Truth Bar-B-Que in the Heights and in Brenham. As well as Merric Meat Company in Roundtop, TX. Franklin Barbecue in Austin tops the list with its legendary brisket, while Snow’s BBQ in Lexington, helmed by the iconic pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz, remains a Saturday morning pilgrimage for smoked meat lovers. One of Marcus’ favorite spots is Tejas Bar-B-Que and Chocolate Factory, in Tomball, TX, as well as The County Line Bar-B-Que in Waller, TX. Governor Perry states: “Brisket and sausage – nothing else even gets close. Our Bar-B-Que is the best in the world.” But one thing is certain—Texans take their Bar-B-Que as seriously as their state pride. ✅ How Marcus & Governor Perry Met – A story of friendship, leadership, and shared purpose. ✅ Morgan Luttrell’s Helicopter Crash – The harrowing experience of Marcus’ twin brother, Navy SEAL Morgan Luttrell. ✅ Ibogaine Treatment – A step-by-step breakdown of this groundbreaking therapy for PTSD and TBI. ✅ Stanford Study on Ibogaine – The latest research and findings on this alternative treatment. ✅ Texas Ibogaine Initiative – Governor Perry’s goals to bring this life-changing treatment to Texas. ✅ Marcus & Amber Capone’s Mission – How they’re saving lives by providing funding to help over 1,000 veterans seeking Ibogaine therapy. ✅ Unbelievable Survival Story – A former vet from the third Ranger Battalion had a jump accident where his parachute didn’t open, leading to a TBI for 17 years — until he found hope with Ambio and Ibogaine treatment. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about healing, resilience, and the future of treatment for our veterans. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I made that fateful statement: “Hey if you’re ever through Austin, come by and see us.” Fat chance you’re gonna get into the Governor’s mansion, right? (10:48) • As we make progress on getting Ibogaine off of schedule 1 and through clinical trials, that facilities will have Ibogaine available to treat traumatic brain injuries. (21:14) • There is a way to regenerate the brain. (23:22) • If you don’t want to quit, generally speaking, you’re not gonna. (31:42) • Ibogaine. 1 treatment. Within 48 hours the desire is gone. The withdrawals – gone. (33:32) • Ibogaine is on schedule 1. Schedule 1 is addictive, and that is has no medical purpose. (35:56) • The best part about this is that you can’t lie t it. (36:25) •  I tell people, “Be curious, lean into this.” (40:42) • I think there are a lot of people who are starting clinics. Go somewhere reputable. Do your homework. Make sure there’s coaching before. (59:26) • We spend billions of dollars in this state to treat people who have mental health issues. (61:39) • There’s no reason why the state legislature wouldn’t go, you know what? We need to make this available. (64:57) • I think that use of Ibogaine is another one that could have a massively powerful, positive effect on this country – I think even in the world. (69:51) • For the naysayers and those who still are not believers, we’re gonna prove it to you. (71:00) Socials: - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - strawberry.me/TNQ   - shipsticks.com/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

Team Never Quit Podcast: From the Inauguration to the Rodeo – A Look Back & Ahead In this week’s electrifying episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus, Melanie, and Hunter take a trip down memory lane, revisiting some of the most unforgettable podcast episodes of 2024. But that’s just the beginning! The team shares their firsthand experience attending the historic inauguration of the 47th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, in Washington, D.C. From rubbing shoulders with dignitaries and famous faces to taking in the awe-inspiring monuments and museums, they give you an inside look at this monumental event. 🏈 The Road to the Super Bowl As football fever ramps up, the crew weighs in on the upcoming Super Bowl showdown in New Orleans—who’s got the edge, and what’s the ultimate game-day strategy? 🎖 Honoring 20 Years of Operation Red Wings Marcus reflects on the significance of the 20th anniversary of Operation Red Wings, honoring the legacy of the brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice. 🤠 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Excitement The countdown is on for one of Texas’ biggest and most beloved events—the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! From bull riding to BBQ, Marcus, Melanie, and Hunter can’t wait to saddle up for all the action. 💬 Join the Conversation! What are you most excited about—Super Bowl, the rodeo, or another big event? Let us know! In This Episode You Will Hear: • If you ever wanted to visit Texas, Houston rodeo season is one of the best times to come. March 4th thru the 23rd.   (6:22) • No matter who you see walking out on those streets – if they’re from Houston Texas area, they’ve got a pair of boots and a hat in the closet. (6:58) • The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo brings back-to-back-to-back A-list artists every single night. (7:18) • Nowhere else [will you experience] a carnival that big. (9:47) • If you don’t have a cowboy hat, get one. (10:23) • We just got back from the inauguration. It was so freaking cold; they had to change the whole schedule. (11:50) • The next day, we were able to stand on the stage – the rotunda. (12:24) • Everybody was walking around looking like badasses. (12:59) • We got to go to the balls. (13:43) • The best ball you could go to was the black-tie Texas Ball. Out of all of them, that’s the one you want to go to. (14:15) • The professional fighters – they’re the nicest guys on the planet. (18:54) • The Gulf of Mexico has been officially renamed ”The Gulf of America,” at least according to the U.S. (33:31) • June 28, 2025 is the 20th anniversary of [Operation] Red Wings (41:02) • This is the only time I’ll ever talk smack to a Marine when it comes to golf and playing with the PXG clubs, cause that guy – apparently, he’s got some kick-ass compound. (44:28) • If you’re somewhere, young, entrepreneur or wanting to be an entrepreneur. If you’ve got an idea and some wherewithal, some grit and a never quit attitude – you can do it. (45:09) • Favorite podcast moments of 2024. (Starts at 47:11) • There’s a Navy SEAL Museum opening up in San Diego soon. (49:09) • We’ve gone to Rome a lot a seen the coliseum, but I’ve heard of them filling it up with water. (52:04) Socials: - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - strawberry.me/TNQ    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold    - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

Holding the Reins of Resilience – Michael Hall's Mission to Help Warriors Heal In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with Michael Hall, a retired U.S. Navy SEAL from BUD/S Class 267 and the founder of Hold the Reins, a groundbreaking non-profit organization dedicated to equine-assisted wellness and coaching for special warfare operators. Michael shares his journey from the battlefield to the barn, explaining how his deep love of horses and his firsthand experience with the challenges of military life led him to create Hold the Reins. This program provides early intervention tools to help Navy SEALs, SWCC, and EOD teams develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, communication skills, and goal achievement—all through the incredible connection between humans and horses. With the unique pressures that come with a career in special operations, divorce and suicide rates remain devastatingly high among service members. Michael recognized this crisis and made it his mission to provide a lifeline—a safe space where warriors can regain control, reconnect, and find healing. Now, as he transitions into running Hold the Reins full-time as CEO and counselor, he's determined to give back to the community that shaped him. Tune in to hear Michael's inspiring story, the science behind equine therapy, and how his program is changing lives one ride at a time. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [My dad] asked me blankly one day, “What do you want to do?” It was just one of those things where I just spit out the first thing that my heart said, “I want to be a SEAL.” (8:43) • The Air Force recruiter looked at me, “Well, whatcha been up to since you graduated high school?” I didn’t hold anything back. I just gave him anything. He was like, “There's no room for you in our Air Force.” (9:31) • [I saw] this recruiting commercial come on. Helicopters come over the horizon. It said, “We’ll take you from high school to flight school.” So, I get in my truck and drove 150 miles to the recruiting office and joined the Navy. (15:41) • That why we started this thing, to help guys hit the pressure relief valve. (17:45) • The world’s too slow. We’re moving too fast on the inside, and we start trying to numb that down, and we do it in unproductive ways. • Our organization is called Hold the Reigns. We use horsemanship to teach guys how to emotionally regulate the present moment focus, and allow them to narrate their own story to us. (19:08) • Were the only organization, possibly in the nation that I know of, that’s run by frogmen. (19:28) • I feel like God has created in me the way, or persona that’s gonna be able to help guys. (23:23) • You can’t team guy your way around horses. (26:24) • I’ve dealt with a lot of really dangerous horses and people made them that way. (43:18) • That's kind of a surprise thing we do – we put them in a really vulnerable situation, so you’re no longer the hairy-chested, bullet-proof frogman. You’re now just a little worried about your safety. (54:14) • A horse is completely honest. They do not know how to lie. (59:40) Socials: - Website: Holdthereins.org - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/holdthereins?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=77f57f3f-f76e-4374-bff3-5f37d6a085b1 - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - Robinhood.com/gold     - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

In the Trenches: The Journey of Robert Gallery from College Star to NFL Standout Join Marcus and Melanie as they welcome Robert Gallery, former NFL offensive lineman, College Football Hall of Famer, and one of the most celebrated athletes to come out of the University of Iowa. Robert’s football journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as a tight end at Iowa, he transitioned to offensive tackle, paving the way for a stellar collegiate career. A two-time First-Team All-Big Ten selection, Robert was named Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2003 and capped off his senior year with unanimous All-American honors and the prestigious Outland Trophy. His excellence extended off the field, earning him three Academic All-Big Ten awards. In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the sport, Robert has been honored with multiple accolades: College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2023 at the 65th NFF Annual Awards Dinner. University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2017. Kinnick Wall of Honor: Added to Iowa’s America Needs Farmers Wall of Honor in 2015. Drafted second overall by the Oakland Raiders in the 2004 NFL Draft, Robert embarked on an eight-season career in the NFL, playing for the Raiders and Seattle Seahawks. Over 104 games, he showcased his grit and leadership, earning the Ed Block Courage Award in 2010 and cementing his place as a force on the offensive line. In this episode, Robert reflects on his incredible football career, the transformation of Iowa’s football program, and his experiences in the NFL. But the conversation goes deeper, exploring his journey after football and the life-changing healing he found through ibogaine. For both Marcus and Robert, ibogaine offered a second chance—a path to healing they’re now sharing to inspire and support others who may feel lost or stuck. These raw, personal stories are a testament to resilience and the universal power of hope. Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with life lessons, healing journeys, and a reminder that no matter the challenge, transformation is always possible. In This Episode You Will Hear: • My parents were very much like: “You do sports, or you work on the farm.” (9:55) • Once my siblings started earning scholarships, and I saw what it did for them, I was like “I wanna do that.” (11:17) • [The coaching staff] were just guys that wanted to get the best out of you. They were there to make you better. (14:25) • [Melanie] Q: What do you think builds a great team?  A: I think it’s the people and the culture. (15:55) • It’s that Midwest mentality. Work ethic, no show boating. It’s about being the best you can be, doing it the right way, and being good people. (17:02) • I knew I needed my buddies next to me on the offensive line. For me to be great, I needed them to be great. (17:57) • I kept working and working. And by the end of my college career, I was the best there was in the country. (25:34) • Continue to work at wat you do to be a better all-around athlete. (25:39) • I love how I was raised. My parents still married after 50 years. (26:57) • I never had a sporting event that I ever remember from as young as I was in grade school, that one of my parents was not there. (38:25) •  I worked so hard and sweated so much that you gotta go to the bathroom. One day I had to go to the bathroom real bad and the game was about to start. The only thing I could do was sit here and go. Go in your pants. I did it every game after that. (49:48) • I got to where now I’m taking pain killers to get to practice. Now I’m asking my linemen what do we do? I’m dizzy. I’m not myself. (55:23) • As time went on, things started to spiral: alcohol abuse. (63:08) • I got a brain scan. That’s when they put up a picture of a healthy brain against a picture of my brain. It was shocking. (65:31) • I started a journey of doing everything I could in modern medicine. (69:06) • I took the invitation to take an Ibogaine treatment. (74:48) • The treatment saved my life. I can out of it a different person. (76:30) Socials: - Website: athletesforcare.org - IG: Athletes4care - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

 Leading the Houston Texans: A Conversation with Cal and Hannah McNair In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Cal and Hannah McNair, the dynamic duo behind the Houston Texans. Cal McNair, the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Texans, has been at the helm of the team since 2018, guiding them through remarkable achievements, including a 10-7 record in the 2023 season under a rookie head coach and quarterback. Under his leadership, the Texans secured their seventh division title and unveiled new fan-inspired uniforms in 2024. McNair attended The University of Texas at Austin, where he was a four-year member of the Longhorns' football team. He earned a master's degree in business administration from the Rice University Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Management. Cal shares his journey from his early career at Cogen Technologies to becoming the principal owner of the Texans in 2024. He discusses his vision for the team, the importance of community involvement, and the Texans Foundation's impact on Houston, which has raised over $48 million since its inception. Hannah McNair, a proud native Houstonian and University of Houston alum, joins the conversation to talk about their shared passion for philanthropy and, of course, the Houston Texans. With a background in business from the University of Houston and Rice University, Hannah has been deeply involved in numerous charities across the city, from the YMCA to the Houston Food Bank. She reflects on the couple’s commitment to giving back, balancing life as parents of seven, and supporting the community that has given them so much. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Cal] What I really enjoy is going into someone else’s house, and beating them, and then seeing our fans, surrounded by the other team’s colors, and they’re wearing our colors in the stands , and when we win those games is my favorite [moment]. (3:27) • [Cal] We have fans that have had seats next to each other that didn’t know each other, but because they came to the game and sat next to each other, they became friends. (4:29) • [Cal played football at] The University of Texas. (8:07) • [Cal] The team was [originally] awarded to Los Angeles, but it had a deadline and they didn’t meet it. (9:07) • [Hannah] The interesting thing about twins is that you have had somebody who’s had your back your entire life. (26:50) • [Hannah] I think team sports is one of the most important educational things you can teach kids. (34:53) • [Hannah] [In baseball] You fail most of the time. If you have an error, are you gonna just stop the game? Are you gonna run to your parents? Or are you gonna learn from it, and go to the next play. You can’t just quick. (34:59) • [Hannah] If you can learn how to be part of a team and put your personal feelings aside for the greater good of the team, I think that’s a valuable lesson, especially with youth today. (35:45) • [Hannah] With anything in the public eye, you try to use those [harassment in the stands] to create a better person in them, so that they’re ready for whatever comes their way, (40:13) • [Hannah] You have to have God as your foundation. If you don’t have that to turn to, you’re lost already. (40:38) • [Hannah] You cannot go wrong by doing what’s right. (45:48) • [Marcus] Q: What’s the best piece of advice or wisdom you’ve got from somebody? [Cal] A: Never Quit. (47:52) • [Hannah] [CJ Stroud] is the CEO on the field. (48:32)

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

A Journey of Redemption: Branden Terrell's Path to Accountability and Transformation In this week’s raw and powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with Branden Terrell, a man whose life has been defined by both profound tragedy and transformation. Branden's journey began with a devastating crime—the voluntary manslaughter of his friend, Ryan Roth, in 2012. After serving over a decade in prison, Branden is now committed to rebuilding his life and advocating for restorative justice, but his path to redemption is far from simple. Branden gets real about the night he took Ryan's life—a night marked by a dangerous mix of drugs, alcohol, and emotional turmoil. He shares how this tragedy has shaped his current mission to support victims' families, advocate for survivors, and push for more effective rehabilitation programs for incarcerated individuals. Branden takes full responsibility for his actions, acknowledging the pain and devastation caused to Ryan's family and the community. He also discusses the impact of substance abuse on his behavior that night, but emphasizes that no excuse can absolve him of his actions. Throughout the episode, Branden shares his struggles, regrets, and efforts to make amends for the harm he caused. His commitment to transformation is clear, but he acknowledges that healing, for both himself and the Roth family, is a long and complex journey. This episode is not just about Branden's personal redemption; it's about understanding the broader impact of crime, the importance of accountability, and the possibilities for growth and healing within the justice system. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I’ve seen a lot of poverty and the impact of drugs. My hopes and dreams was to play professional football or baseball. (12:30) • By the time I was expelled in my junior year after football season, I had been to 17 different schools. (12:46) • I knew my family loved me, but the only place I had that real validation was playing sports. (13:02) • I started hanging around all the wrong people, all the wrong places, seeking validation, wanting to be accepted, covered myself with tattoos. (15:29) • The only time I’ve ever had handcuffs on me was when I was under the influence of alcohol. (18:08) • By the time I was 18, I was living a full-on criminal lifestyle. (19:35) • My mom – even if I’m doing something wrong, she’s gonna have my back. (25:49) • All the folks I was running with [would say] “You’re the biggest liability when you start drinking.” (34:54) • We went out to dinner with some of the folks that were trimming. I remember sitting at the table, waitress is taking orders and everybody’s ordering drinks, and I’m having this internal conversation with myself: “Brandon don’t do it. You don’t need to drink.” They get to me: “What the heck, 1 drink ain’t gonna kill nobody. I ordered a drink. Within hours after that, I was arrested for murder. (38:10) • Me and Ryan had some words. He punched me and then from there, I went into a blackout. I grabbed a knife and ended up taking his life. (39:01) • When I was drinking and I got into something, I’d just go into a rage.(47:45) • I had this vision of “I’m gonna use this to help people be sober one day. I’m gonna help people live their best life through sobriety.” (53:59) • I didn’t know that was okay, as a man, to talk about feelings. (55:32) • There’s a lot of strong guys in prison, but there’s a lot of weak individuals too. (57:55) • I was a closet cowardly christian. (75:48) • So I get on my knees, and promised God never to use alcohol again.(80:24) • That’s what life’s all about. Finding the God-given strength, ability and purpose and using it to help people. (91:11) • I knew I had a problem with alcohol, but I was afraid to ask for help. (119:45) Socials: - Website: ElevateImpact.com - IG: Brandenterrellcoaching - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2025

Warrior of God: The Spiritual Battle with Dom Raso This week’s Team Never Quit guest is Dom Raso, a former Navy SEAL Team Six operator who is renowned for his elite military service and deeply inspiring journey of faith and personal transformation. Dom’s name is synonymous with the highest levels of military excellence, but beyond his unparalleled contributions to the U.S. military, his story is one of profound spiritual resilience, unwavering commitment to family, and a fierce devotion to spreading the Gospel. Dom served with distinction as part of Navy SEAL Team Six, a unit known for its elite status and high-risk operations. Throughout his career, he contributed to the development of military techniques that are still in use today. But in this episode, Dom reveals the deeper side of his journey—how he has navigated grief, loss, and intense physical and spiritual battles while remaining anchored in his faith. Now a devoted Catholic, husband, father of five, and entrepreneur, Dom is leveraging his platform to lead others into deeper encounters with God. With an Instagram following of over 175,000 people, he is a bold evangelist, sharing scriptural reflections, his devotion to the Rosary, and his love for the Eucharist. As the founder of Crush Everything, a company focused on equipping individuals to defend themselves and their loved ones, Dom embodies the philosophy that the physical and spiritual are intertwined in the life of a warrior. In this conversation, Dom reflects on his experiences as a Navy SEAL, the power of prayer, and the concept of spiritual warfare. He shares how the Rosary, a tool he has cherished since his military days, has become his most powerful weapon. Dom also explores the importance of living a disciplined life, staying close to the Lord, and using one’s unique gifts to evangelize and spread virtue in the culture. In This Episode You Will Hear: • Most people have enough children around them where really you could spend the majority of your time teaching them. (17:57) • If we’re not taking those moments we had as a kid and really expounding on them and making them better for our children, we’re missing a key point in the gifts we can give them.(19:34) • I had a lot of people speaking very positively [to me]. (21:42) • At about 8 or 9, I would say that was a sure sign of like:”That’s it. Now I know what I’m doing.” (23:07) • The Holy Spirit just put it on my heart and said: That’s the path.” (23:21) • I believe God has a deep purpose for everybody. (25:10) • Life is made up of choices.(25:22) • I love my father. I love my mother - to death. They knew what was right, but they didn’t live it out themselves. (29:07) • What I was missing was a guy like us, or man – a real man, that grabbed me on the shoulders and said “Son, you’re not walking on the right path.”(30:43) • I always felt the closeness of God in my life, whether I was on an operation, or going through a challenging time in in my life. You’re trying to make sense of what’s going on. But you know that God’s presence is with you. (33:27) • I meet a lot of team guys who either: A-they know they really need God, or they think that they are God.(34:06) • We’re going to go through challenging moments in our lives. We’re gonna get our butt kicked. It’s though those challenges that form us and forge us to have the faith we have today. (36:27) • There’s no way I’d be the man I am today without God’s help. (38:26) • Everybody has opportunities to have God work in their life. (39:22) • One of my major call to actions to other men is” Do you want to into the fight and be part of the solution, or are you just gonna point your finger at the bad and never do anything about it?” • Everybody listening: We’re all stewarding something. (60:12) • We’re really to at the physical part, we’re really goo at the mindset part. But it’s the Spirit that we’re lacking. (85:40) Socials: - Website: https://crusheverything.com - IG: https://www.instagram.com/domraso?igsh=MXZnOHl0ZzI0OW9hMQ==  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

In the Line of Duty: Rodney Magallan’s Legacy in Protective Operations In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Rodney Magallan, a distinguished expert in protective operations and personal security with an unparalleled career spanning over 35 years. From his early days as a Navy SEAL to his pivotal roles with the U.S. Marshals, CIA, and corporate executive protection, Rodney has operated in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Join us as Rodney shares his journey through completing BUDS (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) training, his deployments with SEAL Team 4 and later SEAL Team 6, where he became a leader in cutting-edge maritime capabilities, transitioning into federal law enforcement as a U.S. Marshal and training protective agents with the CIA's Global Response Staff. Leading executive protection teams in both corporate and private sectors. Commanding special operations teams in high-stakes, non-permissive environments.  Rodney’s extensive accolades include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, multiple Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and the CIA’s Exceptional Performance Award. Beyond his operational expertise, he’s a certified firearms instructor, a martial arts apprentice, and a mentor to the next generation of security professionals. Rodney brings to the table leadership lessons from a career built on discipline, adaptability, and service. Tune in for a riveting conversation with one of the most seasoned experts in the field of personal security and protective operations. Whether you’re in the industry or simply intrigued by high-stakes security, this episode is a must-listen. In This Episode You Will Hear: • People don’t believe me when I tell them that the first time that live bullets were coming my way – it was uneventful. (6:27) • When I went to Jumpmaster school, it was easy because 18 Delta just drove that process into me. (11;07) • In 2000, we found out that my mother was one of 17 heirs to 160,000 acres of land and gold. (13:40) • I thought being on the Teams and running hard was what I was supposed to do. I realize now that family matters. (16:49) • We’re all gonna do a swim test to qualify for SEALS or diver. Hey, we’re gonna do the sidestroke. And I’m like “What’s the sidestroke?” I’d never even heard of the sidestroke. (22:34) • I don’t see myself as cool. I just see it as something I did. Every time I do something else, I’m not gonna quit. If I commit to it, I’m gonna do it to the best of my ability. (28:22) • You matter, and you can do it. You choose if you’re gonna let them beat you down, or motivate you. You can do it. (32:17) • No one could hurt me more than my mom. (32:26) • I actually lied and said I spoke Spanish. That’s how I got to Team 4. (36:19) • AIDS was huge back in the 80s and 90s. AIDS is gonna kill you. You couldn’t do mouth-to-mouth unless you had a pocket mask. (43:44) • [Melanie] Q: Your total service time is what?  A: 35 ½ years. (65:44) • II you go make and look at all the decisions I made, all but one, to go to the CIA, that was the only one where “I gotta get back to war. My brothers are there. “All the rest of ‘em were, “I wanted to provide. I wanted to be a good husband. I want to be a good dad. (81:05) • When I interviewed with Walmart, there’s five of ‘em sitting there, and they’re asking me questions. And they’re like “What are your goals here at Walmart?” And I’m like “Well, I want to be a soccer dad.” And they started laughing. (81:22) • [Marcus] Some guys have to switch into the life. We’re always in it. (91:34) • You don’t have to be like me. Just be the best at what you say you are. (94:38) • Don’t take a space that someone else wants, if you have no intentions on going and doing what you took the oath to do. (94:51) • [Some guys get it the easy way, just living they get it. Some of us have to go out and bleed for it. (95:21) Socials: - Website: https://ballastbooks.com/purchase/tip-of-the-spear/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

Resilience and Recon: The Inspiring Journey of Davey Lind In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with Master Sergeant Davey Lind, a United States Marine, combat veteran, and motivational leadership speaker whose life story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of perseverance. Born and raised in Titusville, Pennsylvania, Davey embarked on his military journey immediately after high school, joining the Marine Corps in 1989. Over the years, he honed his skills and leadership as a Recon Marine, serving in pivotal roles from scout to team leader and participating in key operations, including Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the Iraq War. On June 14, 2007, Davey’s life changed forever when a pressure plate IED in Iraq led to the loss of his legs below the knees. Incredibly, he took his first steps just two months after the injury and has continued to inspire others with his unyielding spirit and dedication to recovery and service. Today, Davey is a sought-after motivational speaker, sharing lessons learned from the battlefield and life, focusing on leadership, adaptability, and grit. He resides in Corona, California, with his wife Lisa and their four children, where he continues to make a difference in the private sector with his involvement with PXG Golf. It became a great outlet for him and something to look forward to. He is actively involved in helping veterans heal in the context of golf outings and they have made more friends and memories from various golf adventures. Join us as we dive into Davey’s incredible journey, from the challenges of combat to overcoming life-altering injuries and emerging as a beacon of strength and inspiration.  In This Episode You Will Hear: • 35 in the Marine Corps, that’s old. (14:04) • We were part of a surge in the summer of ’07, and my vehicle struck and activated a pressure plate IED. This IED went off directly underneath me, and from that blast I became a double leg amputee. (15:02) • I rolled over on my back to try to use my left leg to push, and when I tried to do that, that’s when I realized my left leg was gone. (24:50) • I’m married, I have kids, I have goals, and I was immediately aware of how challenging my life was gonna be. (25:17) • As a platoon sergeant, I was armed with both a rifle and pistol. That pistol was on my hip, and I had the conscious thought to end my life right there. I could do it before they could finish working on me. (25:33) • I had a very clear moment of calming, reflection of “everybody did their best.” I’m just gonna die here on the battlefield. (26:54) • My initial assessment was “You’re gonna walk in about 10 months to a year. (33:32) • Being in a wheelchair, even as a gunny, is like the kids table at Thanksgiving. Nobody’s talking to you; they’re talking about you. (35:08) • There’s a great relationship you have to have with your prosthetic doctor. The fit has to be tight, but not too tight. Then there’s alignment. There’s a lot that goes into it. (37:39) • Guys like me – a double leg amputee, I call guys that are single leg below the knee – we refer to that as a paper cut. (38:48) • Perspective is everything. (39:35) • I was able to retire though, which is important because I did a full 20 years, 6 months, and 3 days of active duty time. (46:15) • In 2018 I got one of the greatest phone calls I’ve ever received. Kevin Hudson from PXG called me and said, “We got a program going on - PXG Heroes. If I help you with this program, do you think you could golf a little bit more, and talk about the program, and introduce people to PXG. Would you be willing to do that? (48:19) • Golf is the only thing you can do competitively for the rest of your life. (62:45) • [Marcus] In the beginning you wonder why you got hit. You got hit so you can show people what it’s like and stay up. (65:14)  Socials: - Website: http://www.daveylind.com/about.html - Website: https://www.pxg.com/ - IG: davey_lind - IG: pxg - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.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   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2024

Redefining Mindsets and Building Community In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie’s guest is Earl Granville, a true testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of positive mindset. Earl shares his transformative journey from trauma to triumph, offering listeners insights into how to redefine their own mindset to create the space for positive shifts in life. He discusses stepping out of your comfort zone, becoming the leader you are meant to be, and the critical importance of building and maintaining a healthy community. Earl’s story is nothing short of inspiring. Just two weeks into basic training at Fort Benning, GA, with his twin brother Joe, the tragic events of 9/11 unfolded, marking a pivotal moment in his life. Earl went on to serve nine years as an Infantryman in the Army National Guard, with multiple deployments to Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. During his final tour, Earl lost his left leg below the knee due to a roadside bomb, and tragically, he also lost two of his teammates, Major Scott Hagerty and Specialist Derek Holland, on that same day. After the loss of his limb in combat and the passing of his brother Joe, who took his own life while serving on active duty, Earl discovered the power of a positive mindset and became a passionate advocate for mental health, physical fitness, and resilience. He continues his journey as a public speaker, traveling the country to share his story and motivate others to overcome challenges. In addition to speaking, Earl works with several non-profits like Operation Enduring Warrior, the Oscar Mike Foundation, and WarriorStrong, all of which help wounded veterans and law enforcement officers stay physically active post-injury. Earl’s efforts have earned him numerous awards, including the 2018 Attorney General Heart So Big Award, the Junior Chamber International (JCI USA) TOYA Award, and the 2018 Daughters of the American Revolution Veterans Volunteer Award. He retired as a Staff Sergeant with multiple honors, including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman Badge. Tune in to hear how Earl Granville's story of overcoming adversity and his commitment to positive change can inspire you to face your own challenges with resilience, build stronger connections, and lead a life of purpose. In This Episode You Will Hear: • One good thing about these conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan is that we’ve had a lot of people in their 20s and 30s that were losing limbs that causes technology to be boosted. (3:48) • The amputee’s best friend is your Allen wrench. (7:03) • [At] NYPD, the culture today is like the modern day Vietnam veteran. (21:09) • Joining the military made it about me. What can I get out of this? Sure – free college. But going to Iraq, I became an NCO, put in charge of people. I realized this isn’t about me, it’s about us. (37:27) • There’s pride that people take when tragedy happens. It’s what the community does to honor those who aren’t here anymore. (42:52) • I remember going over the headset talking to my guys like “Damn, it’s beautiful here, look at this green grass. Who’s water the grass in Afghanistan?” The next thing I remember, I saw nothing but black. (65:52) • I was ejected out of my Humvee and I wasn’t wearing mu gunner’s harness which probably saved my life, because the roof peeled back like a tuna can. (70:04) • Everything happened right in my situation. I really do feel that way. What do I have to complain about? (70:20) • Afghans don’t have the will to fight. (76:26) • Have you ever met an Afghan or an Iraqi with an Iraqi flag or an Afghan flag tattoo? (76:43) • I went under for surgery on my hip, and I woke up in Germany, with a nurse pulling a breathing tube out of my throat. (79:02) • Joe [my twin brother] seeing me in this state, says to me: “I shoulda just gone with you. (84:23) • It’s not forever. I’m gonna get my independence back. I’m gonna be walking again, cause it’s not forever. (96:08) • While on active duty, my twin brother, Staff Sergeant Joe Granville, takes his own life. (97:57) • How do I get this second chance at life, and Joe [my twin brother] take his away? (98:08) • Not every mental health situation with an armed forces service member is PTSD related. (109:00) • The big thing people need is purpose – military or not. (110:29) • I found this passion of physical fitness once again thanks to being introduced to Crossfit. (120:41) • People you surround yourself with, I truly believe, makes who you are. (125:15) Socials: - Website: earlgranville.org - IG: Earlgranville - Enduringwarrior.org - Oscar mike foundation Oscarmike.org - warriorstrongink - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2024

From the depths of despair to unparalleled heights of personal redemption. This week, Marcus and Melanie meet with Taylor Cavanaugh, whose story is one of grit, resilience, and transformation. A former Navy SEAL turned French Foreign Legionnaire, Taylor is the only person to hold this unique distinction. His journey has taken him from jail cells to homelessness and even suicidal thoughts, only to find salvation through discipline and a clear sense of purpose. In this episode, you’ll hear firsthand about Taylor’s turbulent path from becoming a Navy SEAL to being kicked out of the U.S. military; How a spiral of pleasure-chasing and lack of purpose led to hitting rock bottom; The life-changing moment of clarity that led him to France and the French Foreign Legion; The rigorous discipline and mental fortification that helped him rebuild his life, and practical insights on how to unlearn self-sabotaging behaviors, cultivate inner peace, and align daily habits with your long-term vision. Taylor is committed to teaching others how to reclaim their lives by building a strong body, mind, and spirit. He shares actionable strategies to create a beautiful life through discipline, mindfulness, and purposeful choices. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how far you’ve fallen, redemption is possible through perseverance, discipline, and self-reflection. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I remember the day and the moment I wanted to be a SEAL. I was 7, and I was on the hill at Point Loma, and I go “Hey dad, what’s that?” “Those are SEALS training in the bay. From that point on, I was in the library and Blockbuster getting the VHS tapes. I couldn’t get enough of it. (10:41) • I was really good on the field with all that training, but the minute I got off the field, I lost my discipline. (11:50) • If anybody’s aware of how BUDS is, it’s like a living organism. (21:48) • I hit a guy in a bar – one time. That one punch changed the trajectory of my life, because I broke his orbital eye socket. (29:32) • I’m no victim. I knew it was against the rules. I did it, and I brought heat on myself. That’s why the commanding officer at Team 7 gave me a general discharge. (34:03) • I started stacking some bad habits. Without building my self-worth. No alignment with God. I had lost my identity. (35:41) • Nobody could tell me anything, because “Hey look at all the external stuff,” but internally I was in chaos. (36:09) • You can’t bend reality that long. (36:51) • I was just tired of trying. Then I had this moment. Reset man… It was that moment where I said “Fuck it. I’m going to the French Foreign Legion.” (37:36) • If you serve your time, you can get French citizenship. (39:01) • It was psychologically challenging. You’re also alone. I lost my life. (43:30) • They gave me a fake French passport with a fake name: Trent Clayson. (43:47) • 150 nations are represented in the foreign legion. (47:54) • If they hear you speaking English, they’re gonna reprimand you. Give you a little extra love. (50:53) • I started ratcheting up my discipline. Getting up at 3:30 in the morning. Training. Doing my macros. Reading the scripture. Really started going internal with it. I stated to feel better. (69:50) • I’m a conduit. I gotta hold myself to a higher standard. (71:10) • I didn’t expect to do Rambo shit. I want to use it as a vehicle for self-development. (72:32) • We have rear view mirrors, to glance back to situational awareness, but that’s why it’s a lot smaller. (75:55) • Even professional athletes have coaches. (78:31) Socials: - Website: https://www.taylorcavanaugh.com/ - IG: https://www.instagram.com/tcavofficial - Youtube: https://youtube.com/@tcavofficial - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2024

Fighter Pilot Survival: Kegan Gill's Battle Beyond the Battlefield In this extraordinary episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with retired U.S. Navy Fighter Pilot Kegan Gill, whose story is nothing short of miraculous. Kegan survived a catastrophic ejection from his aircraft during a training mission over the Atlantic Ocean, where he ejected directly into the sound barrier. The injuries he sustained in that moment were severe enough to kill most people – his limbs torn apart and a traumatic brain injury among them. But Kegan's ordeal was only beginning. Plunged into the icy waters of the Atlantic with his parachute still attached, his wetsuit torn, and his arms unable to move, Kegan was forced to endure a two-hour battle with hypothermia as rescue teams raced to find him. Miraculously, his hypothermic state prevented fatal blood loss. Following this harrowing experience, Kegan faced months of grueling recovery, eventually achieving a perfect Physical Fitness Test score and returning to flight duty. However, Kegan’s journey didn’t end with physical recovery. He began experiencing severe psychotic episodes due to his brain injury, leading to a stint in a VA Mental Health Facility. Pharmaceutical treatments only worsened his symptoms, and he endured dehumanizing treatment from caregivers who misunderstood his unique needs. Now, Kegan is finding renewed hope through alternative treatments for brain health. Through the Warrior Angels Foundation, he has discovered the power of nutraceutical and hormonal interventions, offering a glimmer of healing. Beyond his personal health battles, Kegan is a dedicated father and husband, working tirelessly to support his young family. Join us as Kegan opens up about his incredible journey of survival, resilience, and healing. His story is as inspiring as it is shocking – a testament to human strength and the will to overcome even the darkest of circumstances. Tune in to hear a story of grit, determination, and the relentless pursuit of healing against all odds. In This Episode You Will Hear: • When I was about 10 years old, my family had a friend that had a Cessna, and he took me up on this lawnmower with wings, and we went buzzing around, and it felt like a freakin’ rocket ship. I absolutely loved being above the earth, and I felt so free. (6:26) • In May of 2012, I graduated as a winged aviator, and I got those wings pinned on my chest. (23:30) • [Marcus] It’s an absolute transition into a different human being the minute those wings touch your chest. (23:52) • [In flight school] you showed up there, and you had your wings, and you thought you made it. They made it very clear you have not made anything yet. (26:30) • It just so happened on this day there was a 16 foot, 3,500 pound Great White Shark named Mary Lee directly under my airspace, and my buddy pointed out, “ Hey man, Today would be a terrible day to eject,” and an hour after having that conversation, I found myself out on what turned into a pretty freaking wild experience. (36:13) • [Melanie] Q: Is it common to eject?”  [Keegan] A: It happens more than you hear about in the news. We lose a few naval fighter jets every year to mishaps. (37:06) • When you show up at flight school, they say “Look to your left and look to your right. One of you is gonna have a serious mishap or be dead choosing this job. Are you sure you wanna be here?” (37:39) • You think you’re invincible, and you don’t really think anything of it. (37:54) • Keegan tells the detailed story of that fateful day. (Starting at 41:16) • When I punched out, I got the initial blast from the ejection seat, and then immediately impacted the sound barrier with my body. At that speed, the human body is not aerodynamic. (50:53) • The aircraft impacted the water so fast, it just vaporized. (52:45) • They ended up wheeling me in, and treated me for severe hyperthermia. They took my core body temperature. I was at 87 degrees. [Marcus] “That should’ve killed you.” (60:09) • One of the more senior guys takes me into his office and he goes: “Congratulations, Lieutenant Gill. If you can figure out how to get your body working again, we’ll get you back in a Super Hornet. (68:09) • My brain was just not working the way it was supposed to from TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). (74:59) • I had a deep sense of betrayal from all that thought I had served. To see the treatment, it seemed like everything I was fighting for was a joke. (89:21) • I’ve had a number of psychedelic-assisted therapies that have been really helpful. (95:22) • Ibogaine has been studied pretty thoroughly at this point. It’s showing that it triggers neuro-regeneration. (101:48) Socials: -  IG: kegansmurfgill - https://kegangill.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabtNw03Fww-lVt1LHf5b2iWrga-lLxSr_uJYqbNYUMN_NKoEMDqtfBd-Cw_aem_v5m2wI-nx5AKPUoeOA77pA Order His Book Here --> https://ballastbooks.com/purchase/phoenix-revival/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - Robinhood.com/gold   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2024

From Heart of Texas to Heart of a Mission – Resilience, Family, and a Legacy of Giving Welcome to this week’s Team Never Quit episode! Today, we Marcus and Melanie have an incredibly inspiring guest, Kristi Schiller, joining them. Kristi is a Texas philanthropist, entrepreneur, animal lover, and stroke survivor with an unwavering dedication to making the world a safer, kinder, and more compassionate place. Kristi shares her story of resilience, community impact, and love. Kristi’s career started in broadcast journalism, with highlights that include being dubbed the “Queen of the Internet” by Forbes in 1997. But it’s her charitable work, particularly as the founder of K9s4COPs that has been a true calling. This nonprofit organization provides highly trained K9 officers to law enforcement agencies across the U.S., supporting public safety in a unique way. Kristi’s love for animals is evident in her life at Schiller Ranch, where her passion for horses also led her to create the Diamonds & Dirt Barrel Horse Classic, an event that celebrates barrel racing and benefits her nonprofit. In this episode, Kristi opens up about a life-altering experience in 2021. During a routine shopping trip, she suddenly became disoriented, forgetting her name and address—a frightening moment that eventually led to the diagnosis of multiple strokes. She discusses the unexpected struggles and humbling moments of recovery, from speech therapy to relearning simple phrases. Yet, through her journey, Kristi has remained resilient, now using her platform to advocate for stroke awareness, sharing critical insights on recognizing symptoms and prioritizing health. Kristi’s message is clear: stay vigilant, cherish your support system, and never underestimate the power of resilience. Don’t miss this moving, inspiring conversation with Kristi Schiller! In This Episode You Will Hear: • I saw all these people in front of the banks of TVs and they were crying. I asked “What’s going on?” They said a gunman came into a school in Connecticut and shot children, Kindergarteners. (13:12) • [In an airport] So how he approaches that person [who looks like a potential threat] – that sets off the tone for the rest of [the encounter]. (15:01) • [Marcus] The coolest line up would be when those guys [retiring military] are getting out and you have a school where every bus driver is SF (Special Forces). (17:16) • For the most part, they [retired military] want to keep serving. They want to do something. (17:48) • I was like “Even if we just satisfied [the needs] in our area.” Within 3 or 4 months we were in Iowa, and now we’re in 40 states, Europe and Africa. We have removed 8 Billion dollars in contraband, made over 200,000 felony arrests, and recovered 150,000 weapons. (26:28) • Everybody thinks that child abuse/molestation, they’re gonna grab your kid and take ‘em. That would be a worst case scenario. But a lot of times, you’re out and about, shopping, you’re maybe at a fair or event. It’s somebody just coming by touching, just to cop a feel. (42:38) • [The Amish] have no vaccines, they’re not even wearing shoes. They have no TV and no media, and they’re thriving. (48:13) • I was really sick during COVID. I didn’t realize I’d had 6 strokes. (53:53) • A dog, when it comes in - people will think twice about messing with our nurses, or even doctors. (58:57) • Our government didn’t get our hostages out of Iran. It was Oscar Wyatt and John Connally. How did we repay ‘em? We sent ‘em to prison. (63:28) • [Marcus] I tell you what, I wish I was half the man my dogs thought I was. (76:28) • [Marcus - My dog] taught me more about myself than I could’ve ever learned from a lot of grown men. (76:38) • Have you been to the capitol? They have a separate line. You have a gun on you? Oh, get to go to the front of the line. (83:50) • When you turn on the news and you see that your dog’s gone in. A guy drove to Galveston and drove into Galveston Bay. They threw the dog in and he got him out of Galveston Bay. (95:42) Socials: -  IG: KKSCHILLER - K9s4cops.org - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2024

Mission Accomplished: Rob O'Neill on SEAL Team Six, Leadership, and Life After the Battlefield. In this week’s episode, Marcus and Melanie Luttrell meet with one of the most highly decorated combat veterans of our time—Robert J. O’Neill. With an incredible 400+ combat missions under his belt, Rob’s experiences span across Liberia, The Balkans, The Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean, Ukraine, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. As a Navy SEAL, Rob served in SEAL Team Two, SEAL Team Four, and spent eight years with the legendary SEAL Team Six. Rob’s heroic career is underscored by 53 decorations, including two Silver Stars for gallantry, four Bronze Stars with Valor for heroism, and a host of other prestigious commendations. His resume of skills includes elite qualifications like Military Free-Fall Jumpmaster, Naval Special Warfare Scout/Sniper, and Master Naval Parachutist, among many others. In this episode, we dive deep into Rob’s role in some of the most significant military operations in recent history: Operation Red Wings, which saw the rescue of the Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell The lead jumper in the daring rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates Operation Neptune’s Spear, the mission that brought down Osama bin Laden Beyond the battlefield, Rob is the co-founder of the Special Operators Transition Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to helping special operations veterans transition to successful careers in corporate America. He is also the author of the best-selling memoir, THE OPERATOR: Firing the Shots that Killed Osama bin Laden and My Years as a SEAL Team Warrior. Throughout his post-military career, Rob has become a prominent public speaker, security consultant, and media contributor, sharing expert insights on military strategy and terrorism. Whether speaking to survivors of 9/11 or delivering keynote speeches to business leaders, Rob translates his elite training into actionable lessons on leadership, resilience, and success. Join us as we explore Rob O’Neill’s incredible journey from the frontlines to the boardroom and hear his thoughts on leadership, transition, and how to thrive under pressure. Tune in to hear the untold stories and actionable advice from one of America's most decorated heroes!  In This Episode You Will Hear: • I don’t think I could beat Marcus at arm wrestling if I can’t pick up a bowling ball. (1:58) • You do realize there’s a thing called old man strength? (5:53) • [Rob O’Neil] I have a podcast as well, called “The Operator.” We’re called The Operator because if you’re doing anything, you’re an operator. (6:18) • Having a big man to kick your ass and teach you wind a bobbin; you realize there is skill here. (9:59) • When people quit BUDS, it’s not because “this is hard”. [It’s because] I’m tired of the broken foot; I’m tire of the shin splints; I’m tire of my dislocated shoulder; I’m tired. 21:20) • In BUDS, one of the biggest problems is eating too much. Like I want 5 cheeseburgers, but we have a 4-mile run afterwards. (26:35) • [Rob] and for everyone that doesn’t know, can you explain what a SDV is? [Marcus] Imagine a mini submarine and shrink it down. The difference is that a submarine is dry inside, and the SDV is completely full of water. (37:40) • Listen to Marcus discuss the details of being in an SDV for 8 hours. (38:52) • [Marcus] Talk about ultimate torture - If you have a deep freeze in your garage, fill that sucker full of water, crawl in there and sit down for 8 hours. (38:53) • The first time I got in there, I was terrified. (43:49) • [Marcus] There’s stuff that happens to us out there. Sometimes safety gets in the way of it. (58:40) • [After falling down the mountain during Operation Red Wings] I could hear that stream running. I’ve got to get me water, but I kept thinking I can’t drink out of it, because my buddies are in it. (79:27) • If you want to make God laugh, tell Him what your plan is. (90:24) • [Marcus] Bro, when you saw that son of a bitch’s face [Osama Bin Laden], what was the first thing you saw? [Rob O’Neal] I saw his nose. He was skinny, wearing white – tall. (93:41) • My nickname was “Nisro” (Navy SEAL Rob O’Neal). When they asked “Who got him?” They go “Nisro,” and they said “Fuck! Were never gonna hear the end of it.” (95:38) Socials: -  IG: mchooyah - Host of The Operator Podcast - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2024

From Combat to Community: The Legacy of James Lorraine In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome James Lorraine, a distinguished veteran with over 22 years of service in the U.S. Air Force as a flight nurse and military operations leader. Jim's extensive career spans multiple combat zones, and upon retirement, he became a trailblazer in veteran advocacy, founding the United States Special Operations Command Care Coalition—a gold standard organization serving over 8,000 special operations forces members and their families. Following his government service, Jim established America’s Warrior Partnership, an organization impacting the lives of over 60,000 veterans by enhancing their quality of life, reducing homelessness, and improving access to critical services.  James Lorraine’s Notable Achievements: • Bronze Star Medal and Secretary of Defense Outstanding Civilian Medal recipient. • Founding Director of the U.S. Special Operations Command Care Coalition and America’s Warrior Partnership. • 2015 Presidential Leadership Scholar and active member of various veteran advisory committees. Join us for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the unwavering spirit of our veterans and the vital role of community in their journey to find purpose post-service. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I’d wake up at 5am, throw my hockey equipment on, and walk in below freezing weather, like about ½ mile to the ice rink for practice at 5:30am. Practice until 7am, then from there, with my hockey bag, I’d go to school, all sweaty and nasty, and when I was finished, I’d go back to the hockey rink. (4:31) • When I was getting recruited to go into the Air Force reserve, I was in a terrible car accident, and I amputated my left foot.  And through a series of miraculous events, the next morning I woke up – best sight I ever had in my life. I woke up, looked down; I had sheets over my legs, and there were two points. (9:52) • I went to the recruiter to join the Air Force, and realized I was color blind. I couldn’t fly but I had a nursing degree. They had flight nurses, and you can fly in the back of the plane. • The drive is: “I want to serve.” (12:10) • On the 4th of July, I make my kids read the constitution. (23:44) • [Marcus: Medical Training on live animals] That was the best training. Every time I had to work on a human, it was actually easier [because of it]. (27:06) • [When they attempted to reassign me] my response was “You made the hardest decision of my life the easiest. I’m out.” (30:29) • [Melanie] “When you have your mind, you can do anything.” (37:08) • Everything you did Monday thru Friday prepares you for the following Monday. (37:16) • I went thru a lot of shit, I went through things I should have never done. So how has that made me better? Don’t look at it as “I’m disabled” How does that make you better? (37:29) • All these experiences led me to found the Care Coalition. (37:49) • I’m a stalker on Social Media. I don’t post a lot, but I watch. I’m friends with most of the real high risk [people] – because I started to watch their social media. (44:28) • I have a friend that has a text train with his platoon. No suicides. They all stay in touch. (48:01) • If you say to somebody: “I have your back. No matter what happens to you. You’re gonna get thru this. I’m here with you. I think this is why we were successful at the Care Coalition. (50:04) When I talk to and help folks, I’ll ask: “Where do you want to be in 5 years? If they can’t tell me where they want to be in 5 years, and can only tell me where they want to be tomorrow, that is a huge red flag for me. (50:22) • I think the biggest thing you can do is give a shit. (51:49) • I’m not gonna sit back and watch something. I’m gonna take action. (52:01) • Our approach is: Go find the vets; Connect; educate them about opportunities they have to improve their quality of life; and advocate for them when the hit a roadblock. Own the relationship – don’t own the service. (55:00) • The last bar fight I ever got in was with Chris [Kyle]. (56:40) • There’s a lot of people who try to do what they can do, but they don’t have the background and expertise to handle it. (58:42) • What we offer at America’s Warrior partnership is a group of social workers that are freaking experts at this. (58:49)  Socials:  -  https://www.americaswarriorpartnership.org/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ   -  kalshi.com/TNQ    - PXG.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 30 October 2024

Courage and Sacrifice: SEAL Team 10 and Operation Red Wings with Ben Souders In this week’s episode, Marcus and Melanie are honored to sit down with former Navy SEAL Ben Souders, who served on SEAL Team 10 during one of the most challenging and heroic moments in modern military history—Operation Redwing. Ben takes us through his incredible journey as a Navy SEAL, sharing stories from his time in Afghanistan and reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of his teammates. We dive deep into the challenges faced on the battlefield, and how experiences like Operation Redwing shaped his outlook on life and leadership. Ben reflects on the bravery of fallen teammates, including Marcus’ account in Lone Survivor. He also shares about his life after service - the transition from active duty to civilian life. Tune in to hear Ben’s firsthand account of courage, brotherhood, and the lessons he learned during his time as a Navy SEAL. Ben also shares some of his personal journal notes with the listening audience as well. This is an episode you won’t want to miss! In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Michael Murphy] was well respected. He and a couple of officers everybody loved. (15:30) • The physical part [of BUDS] was the hardest for me. I never thought I would quit, but I didn’t know if I would make it. I asked the Lord, “If you want me to do this, show me a sign.” And He did. I saw a Trident up in the sky. (18:12) • I wanted to go to SEAL team 4 because of watching all the Vietnam documentaries. (27:06) • They were passing out a paper and everybody had to write down why you joined, and I wrote “Patriotism.” (31:20) • I’ll tell you somebody else that doesn’t get recognition – divers. (38:49) • I was wanting to go to Afghanistan more so than Iraq just because I was never really interested in the urban-style of combat. (38:49) • Team 10 was really cool. (41:06) • [Danny Dietz] was a good guy from the start. When I first showed up, he always went around without a shirt. He was ripped like Bruce Lee. (43:09) • [Danny Dietz] was always trying to mentor, no matter who they were. • [Melanie] Q: How many people in a bee hut? A: 6 maximum. They were like mini chicken coops. (46:06) • I hated wearing body armor. (48:59) • Excerpt from Ben’s “Green Book:” I’m tired of all this so-called professionalism crap. I can’t wait to get out – be my own man instead of a peasant in the military. (59:31) • How were we that close to one another when we were only there a couple of months? Just sitting around the fire talking. (78:42) Socials: - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - GoodRX.com/TNQ   -  kalshi.com/TNQ   -  joinbilt.com/TNQ    - Tonal.com [TNQ]    - PXG.com/TNQ   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 23 October 2024

From Navy SEAL to AI Innovator: Protecting Kids Online with Josh Thurman In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Navy SEAL veteran and tech entrepreneur Josh Thurman. As the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Angel Kids AI, Josh is at the forefront of using artificial intelligence to create a safer, age-appropriate internet experience for children. Josh shares insights into his 12+ years of service as a SEAL officer, where he completed 11 overseas deployments in support of the Global War on Terror and was awarded three Bronze Stars, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Two Joint Commendation Medals, Three Navy Commendation Medals, a Navy Achievement Medal, a Presidential Unit Citation, and a Joint Meritorious Unit Award as well as multiple combat and valorous distinctions. Following his transition to civilian life in 2018, Josh applied the leadership and problem-solving skills he honed in the military to the tech world. His groundbreaking platform, Angel Kids AI, empowers parents to protect their children online by enforcing parental guidelines across the digital landscape. In this episode, Josh talks about the challenges of building a tech startup, the future of AI in safeguarding children, and his personal journey from the battlefield to the boardroom. Tune in to hear about his incredible story, the vision behind Angel Kids AI, and how he’s making the internet a safer place for kids. In This Episode You Will Hear: • Riding my bike home; car doesn’t see me. Pulls out and we crash at 20 mph. I fly over the hood, my right leg hits, immense pain. I had broken my hip. But now I’m starting to think about the military. I crutch my way to the recruiter’s office. • Every generation, since the beginning of America has fought to preserve our freedom. • [Marcus] When you’re checking into BUDS, check in on Friday after 4:30pm.  • Always choose the hard things because even if you fail, you’re gonna learn a ton. • Things are gonna hit you in life that you have almost no control over, and you’re gonna want to have those experiences that you build up doing the things you chose to be hard, so you can survive those moments. • My wife’s a nurse practitioner, she’s tracking the baby on the Doppler. As she’s laboring, our son passes away. Been through all this stuff: Training, deployments… I’m grateful for those things, because they all sort of prepared me for this thing that happened in life that I had no control over. •There’s suffering to be dealt with and that loss – you’ve gotta get through it, assigning meaning to that suffering. I’m not suffering for nothing, I’m suffering for something. • [Marcus] A lot of times, you just go though it with them, and not talk ‘em through it. • Recognize that God gives us that pain to keep us close to that person so that we don’t forget ‘em. • I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur. In many ways, I wanted to serve as long as I could, as hard as I could, but I knew on the other side this is what I wanted to do. • You may have thousands of followers on whatever platform it, but do you have someone you can call to move a couch? • Social media is a democracy killing force. It wields way too much power in our lives. • Technology should be a tool to help us fulfill the dreams of our lives. It’s totally inverted right now. • AI has been working for big tech, it serves their purposes. It serves up products to advertisers. This is the big machine. Frankly, we’re getting played by it. • If you want this incredible thing called America to persist, you’ve gotta be part of the solution. • We’re all getting played, and the house always wins. • There’s value in getting information, organizing, shopping, people finding love on line. But it shouldn’t be massively destructive. • Kids have access to this online virtual world all the time that’s terrible for their mental health. It’s teaching them that the most important things in life is how many likes and followers you get. • The surgeon general put out a warning: If kids are spending 3 or more hours on social media, they’re 50% more likely to be depressed. • At Angel Kids, our mission is to use AI to make the internet safe for kids.  Socials: - IG: jpthurman        - https://www.angelkids.ai/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - Tonal.com [TNQ]    - PXG.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 16 October 2024

From Navy SEAL to Humanitarian: Ephraim Mattos on Courage, Sacrifice, and Saving Lives in War Zones. In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with Ephraim Mattos, a former US Navy SEAL and founder of Stronghold Rescue & Relief. After leaving the SEAL teams in 2017 at the age of 24, Ephraim made a bold decision: instead of returning home, he volunteered on the front lines of the war against ISIS in Mosul, Iraq. His experiences there would change him forever. Ephraim shares harrowing details from his time with the Free Burma Rangers, a humanitarian group that provides aid to civilians in war zones. He recounts the unimaginable horrors he witnessed, from civilians fleeing the brutality of ISIS to the daring rescue missions he and his team conducted under constant enemy fire. One of these missions, during which Ephraim was shot while rescuing a young Iraqi girl, exemplifies the courage and sacrifice required to save lives in the most dangerous places on Earth. We dive deep into Ephraim's personal journey, chronicled in his book City of Death: Humanitarian Warriors in the Battle of Mosul, coauthored with American Sniper writer Scott McEwen. The conversation explores what it's like to face death on a daily basis and how Ephraim and his fellow volunteers embodied the credo: "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." In this episode, Ephraim reflects on the emotional and physical scars of war, his recovery from his gunshot wound, and his unwavering commitment to helping those in need, even in the most perilous conditions. His stories of bravery, resilience, and humanity will leave you speechless. In This Episode You Will Hear: • Probably the biggest thing I learned in training that applies to everyday life is when things go really, really bad, one of the best ways of dealing with it, and actually pushing through is to laugh at it. (1:29) • I had my finger on the trigger. I had pressure on the trigger, just waiting for them to come out so I could get a body shot, and 2 heads pop out. It turns out it’s two little girls. One was maybe ten; the other may five or six. They were weeping, crying, and they were running straight at me. And they were both wearing backpacks just like the backpacks that are just like the backpacks we just blew up an hour earlier. And they’re running straight at me. (25:22) • I was in a firefight in Iraq, technically before my last day in the Navy. (29:19) • [The Iraqi army] They weren’t super organized , or marksmanship, but as far as their courage and willingness to go toe to toe with ISIS, and I watched multiple time – an Iraqi tank would drive up, get blown up by an ISIS car bomb. And they would keep going. (31:25) • We assist every way we can, and we build relationships, by showing them we care, we’re here to help, we’re not crazy, we’re not her to get in a gunfight. We just want to help you. (33:43) • We provide frontline mentorship for active security threats. If a tribe is facing genocide, we’ll advise them on how to best use the resources they already have. (34:09) • There’s a certain level of evil that people just don’t see or understand. They don’t understand a military unit would go into a village and just slaughter everybody. (36:06) • For people who actually care, what do you do? How do you help? (42:48) • If you care about what’s going on in these conflicts, find multiple organizations that you like and give a little bit so several of them. You can make an impact, without having to take all the risk. (43:50) • 99.9 percent of our job is logistics, medical care, training medical care, suffering in the jungle. Yes, you’re armed, but you’re not there to get your rocks off. (48:11) • We bring in primarily guys with medic training. We don’t bring in full-fledged doctors because the kind of stuff we’re dealing with is emergency care – people stepping on land mines or getting shot. (50:38) • A couple of American missionaries were killed in Haiti. Stuff like that happens all the time. Nobody hears about it. It gets instantly buried under celebrity gossip and such. (53:19) Socials: - IG:  Strongholdrescue.org        - overwatch.co - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - Tonal.com [TNQ]    - PXG.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 9 October 2024

A Lifeline for Babies in Crisis – Featuring Monica Kelsey In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Monica Kelsey, founder and Executive Director of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing infant abandonment by providing mothers in crisis a safe, legal, and anonymous option to surrender their newborns. Monica’s journey is deeply personal. Born after her teenage mother was raped and hidden away during pregnancy, Monica was abandoned at birth. Her life story has fueled her passion to advocate for infants like herself and to create compassionate solutions for birth mothers who face unthinkable challenges. Through Safe Haven Baby Boxes, Monica is on a mission to ensure that no child is abandoned unsafely, and no mother is left without options. We also explore Monica's role as a firefighter and paramedic, where she has firsthand experience with the life-saving impact of Safe Haven laws. Her dedication to working with first responders has been crucial in creating awareness and ensuring these boxes are accessible nationwide. Tune in as Monica shares her inspiring story, the incredible work her organization is doing, and how Safe Haven Baby Boxes are making a difference—one life at a time. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I grew up adopted, but I never knew the back story. (4:36) • I joined [the U.S. Navy] and got my love for firefighting there. (5:40) • I never longed for love. (6:35) • I just called [my biological mother] and she says “I’ve been waiting for your call.” (9:30) • I always wanted that connection of “Hey, she does that, and I do that.” (10:31) • The question comes up: “Who’s my biological father?” And she just got up and walked out. (11:34) • If abortion was available in 1972, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here today. (12:30) • I had to come to grips with the fact that I was whisked into this world by violence, and then thrown away like trash. (14:03) • I had to go back to my faith because I had stumbled away from it.(14:10) • The more I started reading scripture, the more it started pointing to my life. (14:24) • Controversy is horrible around the baby boxes. (19:23) • We launched the very first baby box in April; 30 days later our son was in a deadly accident. (20:26) • [Melanie] The thought of putting a baby in a box is crazy; but the box of putting a baby in a dumpster is crazier. (25:29)  Socials: - IG:  https://www.instagram.com/safehavenbabyboxes/        - https://www.shbb.org/         - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5PQX9JG5U3gSwcIAciYCPQ        - https://www.tiktok.com/@safehavenbabyboxes?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - Tonal.com [TNQ]    - PXG.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2024

From Navy SEAL to Private Contractor: The Journey of Daniel Corbett In this gripping episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Daniel Corbett, a former elite Navy SEAL operator turned private military contractor. Daniel takes us through his fascinating journey from joining the Navy in 2002, right out of high school, to serving in some of the most renowned and secretive SEAL Teams, including SEAL Team 5, SEAL Team 6, and SEAL Team 17. Hear about his deployment to Iraq in 2005, his global missions with SEAL Team 6, and his experiences instructing the next generation of SEALs at the Naval Special Warfare Basic Training Command. We also delve into Daniel's transition from active duty to private military contracting—a world where high-stakes missions take on new meaning. Daniel shares the story of his 2017 arrest in Belgrade, Serbia, where he was imprisoned for eighteen months. Now back in the States, Daniel continues to apply his expertise in unconventional problem-solving for clients in need of unique solutions. Whether he’s monitoring international events or getting unexpected phone calls, Daniel’s post-military career is anything but ordinary. Tune in for an inside look at one of the most high-stakes careers on the planet, and hear firsthand what it takes to thrive as a SEAL, contractor, and global problem-solver. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Growing up] We lived in Germany. My dad was stationed there. We’d just drive around and see castles. It was cool. (3:06) • What got me [to join the SEAL teams] is that they interviewed one operator, and he goes “What makes you guys so good?” The team guy responded with: “It’s not that we’re that good, it’s just that everybody else sucks.” (6:35) • [Marcus] Q: What do you think the best job in the SEAL teams is? Best rank. [Daniel} A: E5 Mafia. Cause you have some power, but you’re not responsible for shit. (9:47) • I was a triathlete and cross-country runner. (13:39) • [Marcus] There’s a thing that we don’t talk about. It’s not in the books or the documentaries. You sign up knowing you’re gonna fail all the time, so naturally, you wanna be a shit bag. (18:16) • I’m the man at weddings, because I do bring my sewing kit. Buttons? I got you. (23:55) • I was a young hot shot guy. I was at the squadron. It’s nice, but nothing has ever compared to when I had a Platoon OIC, LPO or chief come up and say “Hey, these kids you put through CPC, they’re awesome. You did a really good job.” (26:34) • I coined the terms: “Falsely Intuitive.” (29:18) • [Melanie – While escorting cargo ships] Q: What would you do if pirates did roll up on you? [Daniel] A: Get on the Bridgeway and take your iron sight, and try your best. (34:25) • In Belgrade, Serbia, I was arrested and locked up. I wasn’t charged for 11 months. I looked up, and there was a 21 year old kid with a gun pointed at my head, terrified. I could hear the magazine springs rattling with his finger on the trigger. And I’m like “After all the stuff I’ve done. Not like this.” (35:49) • When I was being interrogated, they asked: “You’re not CIA, DEA? You’re not here to kill the president?” (37:35) • I came home to $86,000 in debt to the IRS, and a credit score of 530. (43:28) • Love is the antagonist to fear. (46:12) • I know I’m loved. That’s really what got me through. (46:26) • There’s no responsible journalism anywhere anymore. (48:18) Socials: - IG: american_mercenary - www.danieldavidcorbettiii.com - https://a.co/d/7XstytC <------ (Get the book here) - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - PXG.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2024

From Battlefield to Whitetails: The Journey of Bill Thompson & Spartan Forge In this Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Meanie sit down with Bill Thompson, founder of Spartan Forge, to explore his incredible journey from serving on the frontlines to revolutionizing the way hunters pursue whitetails. Bill, who grew up in rural North Dakota, has always been passionate about the outdoors and hunting, especially the pursuit of mature whitetails with a bow. His 22 years of service in the military, particularly his time in Iraq, helped shape the foundation for Spartan Forge—a cutting-edge hunting app that applies military intelligence techniques to deer hunting. Bill shares how the concept for Spartan Forge came to him in 2010, inspired by the "Find, Fix, Finish" targeting cycle used in military operations. He realized the similarities between tracking enemy targets and pursuing trophy whitetails, and Spartan Forge was born out of this unique combination of experiences. Now, with Spartan Forge, hunters can automate the intelligence-gathering process to increase their chances of success in the field, no matter their goals. Tune in to hear Bill's story of how his love for hunting, combined with his military background, led to the creation of an invaluable tool for hunters everywhere. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I try to write poetry once in a while. I’m an engineer, and I was a soldier. I try to write poetry just to be more of a rounded person. (2:34) • I was in the Southern Philippines. One of the mayors was having a dinner. They were mourning the loss of their dog that this guy had forever. We ate the dog. (7:48) • I joined the military because I was trying to get out of North Dakota. (11:27) • Do the work, and then enjoy stuff later. (13:02) • I did signals intelligence and then transitioned into computers. Think of it as ethical hacking. (22:16) • I got to contribute to the targeting cycle in a real meaningful way. (26:38) • In the beginning, you may not be doing what you signed up for. And I didn’t for the first six years. But eventually I got to do everything and more than ever thought. (32:49) • The whole trajectory of my life and reason why I’m sitting here with you guys today is because I forgot my driver’s license. (38:15) • [Spartan Forge] it’s built around mapping. But it does journaling. We’ve got a feature in it called Blue Force Tracker where you can share pins and locations with your buddies. There’s a predictive artificial intelligence that does animal movement. (40:44) • My framework is: Are we embolding the autonomy of the individual? Are we giving them something that is actually useful at a price point that they can afford? Are we elevating the experience of the individual? (46:34) • That ability for people to be like “I can do this on my own”. I can do this. (59:46) • What are the elements that are gonna contribute to the success or the failure of this? Let’s identify every one of them. (67:56) • Strangeness of life can’t be explained. (75:42) • It’s much better to be a king-maker than it is to be a king. (81:08) • I’ve never been the smartest guy, I was never the most technically or tactically competent I was never anything. I can always recognize good people. (81:43) • It was my experience in the military, for me it was always a Puerto Rican platoon sergeant. (83:21) • I was a platoon sergeant, and then I became a warrant officer, because I wanted to focus on technical stuff. (83:59) Socials: - IG: spartan.forge - spartanforge.ai - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - PXG.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2024

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie are thrilled to welcome Alex Bonamarte, a passionate entrepreneur, lifelong optimist, and father who lives by the principle of the Golden Rule. Alex wears many hats, from being a gentleman farmer to running the unique brand Firecracker Farm, where he is responsible for branding, marketing, web development, and daily operations. Firecracker Farm is home to the famous Hot Salt, a coarse sea salt infused with some of the world’s hottest peppers like Ghost, Carolina Reaper, and Scorpion. Tune in as Alex shares his journey of building this spicy empire, offering tips on entrepreneurship and his love for unique flavor experiences. Beyond the world of Hot Salt, Alex dives into his background in web and app development, design, and system design—skills that have played a crucial role in shaping his approach to business. As an active member of the Trading Tribe, Alex embraces continuous learning and collaboration, striving for growth and excellence in every area of life. Join us for an engaging conversation about fatherhood, the art of balancing business and personal life, and what it means to live optimistically while cultivating a brand that brings the heat! In This Episode You Will Hear: • My sister and I would travel back and forth to France – alone – which is kinda crazy. They’d put us on a plane doing layovers. I was 5 and she was 3. (7:09) • The most valuable thing I learned was to be able to just be who you are – take it or leave it. (9:38) • I don’t quit, and I won’t fight unless I can win. (11:27) • People can do things of value from pretty much anywhere. (20:51) If you’re not a good man, you should probably try harder. (29:26) • [At the 9/11 scene] on the ground it did not look like what had happened. There was all sorts of glass and body parts, not from people on the plane, but from stuff that fell down. (35:01) • It wasn’t until the second impact people realized what was going on. (35:37) • The first people weren’t jumping intentionally. They were coming down like burning plastic – drip…1, 2,…1, 2, 3, 4. (36:52) • [Melanie] in the 9/11 museum, they have an exhibit on the jumpers .It’s one of those things that you don’t want to watch out of respect, and you do want to watch out of respect. The reason to watch is to understand the magnitude of what happened. (37:18) • [Marcus – After 9/11] No matter what you’re staring at – what kind of human it is looking at you – what they’re dressed in. It’s like “Hey brother, what’s up? You aight? Need something? The solidarity was amazing. (42:27) • Still there are lot of people who don’t like the American view of how things should be. (43:11) • [Melanie] it is important to remember, and it is important to teach the young generation. Or history will repeat itself if we forget and brush it under the rug. (44:28) • I’m a firm believer in our generation. (45:52) • Life is full of longshots. Everybody pick their longshot and go. (46:45) • I’ve always been a sucker for a nice, printed thing. (49:50) • [With regard to packaging my product] I think the whole experience makes it that much more satisfying. (51:05) • You have your own idea of what somebody else thinks because you never ask them. It’s such a weird thing that we live in our own heads, and if you just take the time to ask how you feel about this, and they will tell you. And you’re like “Holy shit. That was there the whole time?” (63:36) Socials: - IG: ultrahotpeppers - https://firecracker.farm/ - fathergoods - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - GoodRX.com/TNQ - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 11 September 2024

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Bedros Keuilian, a true embodiment of the American Dream. Born in Armenia, Bedros and his family fled communism to seek freedom and opportunity in the United States. From these humble beginnings, Bedros has become a highly successful American entrepreneur, demonstrating the power of determination and resilience. Bedros is a serial entrepreneur and investor with a hand in over a dozen industry-leading brands and businesses. He is the founder of Fit Body Boot Camp, a fitness franchise that has been recognized by Inc. Magazine and Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the 100 fastest-growing franchise brands in the world. He is also the author of the Wall Street Journal Best Selling book "Man Up – How to Cut the BS and Dominate In Business and In Life." His work focuses on empowering individuals to eliminate excuses, take control of their lives, and achieve greatness. Bedros believes in the power of the human spirit and the potential that lies within each of us. Through his life story, Bedros aims to inspire people to break free from their limitations and realize their full potential. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Bedros Keuilian, where he shares his journey, insights, and strategies to help you get unstuck and achieve the success you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or someone looking to improve their life, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that can help you reach your fullest potential! In This Episode You Will Hear: • In 1980 [my dad] bribed an official in the Soviet government to allow us to go on vacation to Italy, where we then went to the American consult. (11:08) • If [my dad] didn’t accept the privilege of being in the communist party, he’d be shipped off to Siberia. (11:38) • One time a rooster gave chase to me, and I’m like 4 or 5 years old, and this rooster is angry and` pecking at me, and I’m running. And the only place I could run into was the outhouse to get away from it. So I ran into the outhouse – a giant hole in the ground. While I’m in here, I’m gonna take a piss. And I squat over it, took my pants off, and I fall in. (18:40) • What my dad told me [America] was gonna be like – he kinda lied. (19:33) • I had a tight green sweatshirt with Herman Munster on it, and it said “Herman” underneath. And so they took me took school, and the kids started calling me Herman, and I answered to it. (21:06) • The life that he (my dad) gave by risking his life was huge. (26:13) • I’m a kid, and within the first year I learned the language, and I’m good to go. (26:53) • It was a horrible disease [Dementia] to have your mom not know your name. (28:40) • The way that disease kills you is it eats away at the part of the brain that controls your breathing. (33:31) • I remember a kid named Robby. He & I, behind a baseball backstop, we would try to dig a hole to China and we’d cover it up with twigs so no one would fill it in. (37:23) • I hated school. (38:44) • No good thing comes from being fat. I’m not body shaming. (45:06) • I believe that you can only love the people around you to the capacity that you can love yourself. (45:47) • My physical transformation going from fat to fit is how I got into fitness. (52:04) • [Marcus] Q: Boils down your success to one thing. What is that? Discipline? What are we talking about? [Bedros] A: Discipline and singularity of focus. (53:17) • I graduated because they didn’t want a man with a beard in high school. (54:30) • Confidence is built when you make a promise to yourself and keep it. (57:00) • Self-development metaphorically take the critic, duct tape him, gag him, and put him in the trunk. Then take the advocate ungag him, unbound him, put him in the front seat so you can hear him more often. (60:01) Socials: - IG: bedroskeuilian - https://bedroskeuilian.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/c/BedrosKeuilian - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 4 September 2024

Living the Dream, Facing the Nightmare: An Interview with Alan C. Mack This week's Team Never Quit guest is a decorated war hero and an extraordinary pilot whose military career spanned nearly 36 years, including 17 years in Army Special Operations. Alan C. Mack, a retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), shares his incredible journey from a young man with a passion for flying to a highly respected leader in some of the most elite units of the U.S. military. Alan's expertise and leadership saw him involved in numerous high-stakes operations, many still classified. One of the most notable missions he discusses is the Battle of Takur Ghar, also known as the Battle of Roberts Ridge, during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan. Alan's bravery and skill under fire, including crash-landing a helicopter and attempting multiple rescue missions under heavy enemy fire, highlight his exceptional courage. Alan's distinguished service has earned him numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, three Bronze Stars, ten Air Medals (one with a Valor device), and many more. His impressive flight record includes over 6,700 flight hours, with more than 3,200 hours under Night Vision Goggles. After retiring from the military, Alan continued to serve his community. He now works as the Deputy Commissioner of Emergency Services for Orange County, New York, a role that he appreciates for its peaceful nature compared to his military experiences. Alan's story is one of resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Despite the adversities and challenges faced in combat, his journey is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome and find meaning in serving others. His life is an inspiration, showing that with determination and courage, it's possible to live out your dreams while also facing and conquering the nightmares. This episode will leave you both inspired and reflective. In This Episode You Will Hear: • The biggest cause of an air refueling incident is the grohe – it’s a big hose – you are actually only 19’ from rotors to tanker. (26:26) • [During air refueling] You’re doing 110-120mph over the water. (27:00) • I’ve done air refueling as low as 100’ off the coast of Iraq. (27:08) • I get a missile fired at me so now I drop down between buildings. I’m down on the rooftops and you know what’s in front of me? Kites. Hundreds and hundreds of kites. (34:10) • The older [Chinook helicopter] Delta models just had handheld maps. (43:34) • [During Operation Red Wings] I sat down with the A10’s and the AC130’s with my map and the imagery and said “I need you to either suppress or creative a diversion that’s so big no one could help but look. (50:15) • Crew Chiefs sometimes see things that aren’t there (and I hate to say it that way) but sometimes they’ll see lights of a car and think they’re seeing signal light signals. (53:28) • Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good. (55:00) • My youngest son was a Night Stalker Flight Engineer, and my oldest son is a Navy F18 wizzo (back seater) He’s a Goose. (58:05) • I did 17 years with the Night Stalkers, plus about 10 years of deployment. (59:03) • Every aircraft munition has a probable kill ratio. A surface to air missile has a “PK” of 75%, meaning that if they fired at you, you have a 75% chance of killing you. The ground has a 100% PK. (64:23) • I’ve got about 3,500, maybe 4,000 hours of night vision time, which is a lot. (67:51) • Anaconda was a conventional operation, such as Red Wings. There’s no soft component to it. (68:57) • We had 4 or 5 people on the aircraft tail, and we are diving at about 150, [one of our men that fell out but is tethered] while they’re shooting at us and his toes are tickling the trees. The crew chief is returning fire with an M60 machine gun. He looks over and pulls our guy up, and I learned we had lost Neil [another guy] and decided we’ve gotta go back. So I turned inbound and climbed back up and the controls stopped moving. Imagine you pulled the keys out of your car. That’s what it’s like with no hydraulics. So I’m like “Guys… we’re done,” as in “We’re going to die.” (79:03) • In the spirit of never quit, there’s a saying: ”Never quit flying the aircraft.” (83:22) • Everything I do in life, I associate with movies I’ve seen. (88:12) Socials: - IG: alancmack2015 - https://alancmack.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/ BUY HIS BOOK HERE-> Razor 03: A Night Stalker’s Wars https://www.amazon.com/Razor-03-Night-Stalkers-Wars/dp/1399018698 - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 28 August 2024

From the battlefield to the boardroom, with retired Navy SEAL, Lieutenant Commander JJ Parma. In this week’s episode of The Team Never Quit Podcast, we’re honored to have retired Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander JJ Parma. With a distinguished military career spanning numerous positions, including SEAL Platoon Commander and multiple operations officer roles, JJ Parma’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of military operations. He was responsible for the manning, training, and equipping of personnel while managing day-to-day operations and budgeting for units across the globe. Beyond his military achievements, JJ has transitioned into civilian life as a motivational speaker and operations professional. With expertise in intercultural communication, intelligence analysis, government, and crisis response, JJ has a demonstrated history of leading in both military and civilian sectors. A Master of Business Administration with a focus on financial management, JJ is now a leader in the financial services industry, driving the strategic intent of investment platforms worldwide. His passion for leadership and culture is further backed by a specialized program in Professional Leadership Development from Harvard Business School, where he honed skills in business leadership, culture, and strategy. Alongside his Swim Buddy Kristel, JJ delves into how the lessons from his military career continue to influence his approach to business and life, providing practical insights that listeners can apply in their own lives. This episode is packed with valuable insights from a true leader who has mastered the art of navigating complex environments both in and out of the military. Whether you’re a military professional, business leader, or someone looking to elevate your personal and professional life, JJ Parma’s story will inspire and motivate you to strive for excellence. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I grew up 2 streets over from Marvelous Marvin Hagler. (4:28) • Everything about my childhood today is about perspective. (6:48) • [I grew] up in the inner city, a very diverse multicultural place. You name it, we had it. Portuguese, Greek, Black, Spanish, and Spanish populations – we had it all. (6:52) • My mother was the true definition of a hero – selfless. (9:20) • I would spend my time as a child alone, in a pool, teaching myself to swim. I was so comfortable, I would stay there all day, all night, all summer. (17:00) • I had every book on the Vietnam War that you could possibly imagine. (32:24) • I was the kid who tied my friends to a tree. (32:28) • This fascination with the military never really went way. It built and built. Every Halloween, guess what I was? Some kind of Army guy with face paint. Some commando, running around. (33:00) • [Navy SEALS] They’re like Green Berets - but the water… it was the water – peace. Nobody does that. That’s what I want. Maritime. (39:04) • Rick Kyser was my mentor. He was phenomenal. He told us the story about Black Hawn down from his perspective. That was it for me. Hook, line, and sinker. This is the job for me. (48:19) • In Serbia, the Muslims were being eradicated by the Serbs. Genocide Level 1. And we went there defending the Muslim population. The peacekeeping mission was that we were protecting them. When it gets political, people want to hone in on the politics. They don’t know the stories on the ground. The stories on the ground never get told. (61:52) • We spent 3 months ship-chasing Bin Laden’s family. There was a container ship in the northern Arabian Sea which had one of Bin Laden’s sons on it, transporting arms. You know what we found? 55 containers of rice. (70:27) • Next thing you know, I hear it. A 2.75 rocket. Hits about 1-15 yards from the back Humvee. The Humvee comes off the ground, lands, I’m in the 3rd Humvee looking back, and I’m like “We just lost a couple of guys right there.” (82:58) • I got a letter from Bush with Team 10’s original coin which said “Victory through Violence”, which they stopped making. Now it’s “Victory through Valor.” (92:19) • We have so many skills, and our skill set so vast, it’s all lexicon. That the trick that the civilians play on you. (100:26) • Find a good swim buddy. (101:15) • Moments are fleeting. One thing that’s finite is death. They’re told by society that this how it has to go. You have to live this phase, this phase, and this phase, and then you’re gone. And they live that way. We’re gonna try to reset that. (110:46) • When you find your swim buddy – if they find you at your lowest point – that’s a keeper. (111:52) • People need to fail, because from failure, launches a whole new life lesson. (113:10) Socials: - IG: thefourthphasepodcast - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Transcribed - Published: 21 August 2024

Leading the Houston Texans: A Conversation with Cal and Hannah McNair In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Cal and Hannah McNair, the dynamic duo behind the Houston Texans. Cal McNair, the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Texans, has been at the helm of the team since 2018, guiding them through remarkable achievements, including a 10-7 record in the 2023 season under a rookie head coach and quarterback. Under his leadership, the Texans secured their seventh division title and unveiled new fan-inspired uniforms in 2024. McNair attended The University of Texas at Austin, where he was a four-year member of the Longhorns' football team. He earned a master's degree in business administration from the Rice University Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Management. Cal shares his journey from his early career at Cogen Technologies to becoming the principal owner of the Texans in 2024. He discusses his vision for the team, the importance of community involvement, and the Texans Foundation's impact on Houston, which has raised over $48 million since its inception. Hannah McNair, a proud native Houstonian and University of Houston alum, joins the conversation to talk about their shared passion for philanthropy and, of course, the Houston Texans. With a background in business from the University of Houston and Rice University, Hannah has been deeply involved in numerous charities across the city, from the YMCA to the Houston Food Bank. She reflects on the couple’s commitment to giving back, balancing life as parents of seven, and supporting the community that has given them so much. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Cal] What I really enjoy is going into someone else’s house, and beating them, and then seeing our fans, surrounded by the other team’s colors, and they’re wearing our colors in the stands , and when we win those games is my favorite [moment]. (2:45) • [Cal] We have fans that have had seats next to each other that didn’t know each other, but because they came to the game and sat next to each other, they became friends. (3:47) • [Cal played football at] The University of Texas. (7:27) • [Cal] The team was [originally] awarded to Los Angeles, but it had a deadline and they didn’t meet it. (8:22) • [Hannah] The interesting thing about twins is that you have had somebody who’s had your back your entire life. (29:24) • [Hannah] I think team sports is one of the most important educational things you can teach kids. (37:35) • [Hannah] [In baseball] You fail most of the time. If you have an error, are you gonna just stop the game? Are you gonna run to your parents? Or are you gonna learn from it, and go to the next play. You can’t just quick. (37:46) • [Hannah] If you can learn how to be part of a team and put your personal feelings aside for the greater good of the team, I think that’s a valuable lesson, especially with youth today. (38:28) • [Hannah] With anything in the public eye, you try to use those [harassments in the stands] to create a better person in them, so that they’re ready for whatever comes their way, (42:56) • [Hannah] You have to have God as your foundation. If you don’t have that to turn to, you’re lost already. (43:21) • [Hannah] You cannot go wrong by doing what’s right. (50:11) • [Marcus] Q: What’s the best piece of advice or wisdom you’ve got from somebody? [Cal] A: Never Quit. (52:16) • [Hannah] [CJ Stroud] is the CEO on the field. (52:56) Socials: - IG: houstontexans - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Tonal.com [TNQ] - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2024

Honoring Valor: A Conversation with Vietnam Veteran and Silver Star Recipient Marc Lawrence In this week's Team Never Quit Podcast, we have the honor of speaking with Marc Lawrence, a Vietnam veteran and recipient of the prestigious Silver Star for his acts of gallantry in combat. Marc shares his incredible journey, from his early days growing up, to his experiences in the Vietnam War, and how those experiences shaped his life afterward. This episode is a tribute to his bravery, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. His story is one of courage, dedication, and unwavering patriotism. Marc recounts some his experiences in Vietnam, the challenges he faced, and the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by service members. Marc’s experiences in Vietnam shaped his outlook on life and leadership. Thank you for listening, and don't forget to honor our veterans. In This Episode You Will Hear: • As a kid, we grew up reading Sergeant Rock comic books, and we were playing Army in the woods, and a buddy & I played Frogmen. We had boats and we would slip into the canals and go underwater in the middle of the night. (8:03) • In basic training I learned the joys of KP and guard duty. (9:05) • The first thing you learn in a firefight – you can’t hear anything. (25:42) • I’m on the ground in a prone position. A bullet went under my hand, through my sling, between my arm and my chest, and tore out the stock of my gun. Stray bullet. (26:16) • What am I gonna do when the shit hits the fan? My body was so full of adrenaline. When 3 events happened – [I thought] “I can’t get killed.” (31:15) • After I realized I can’t get killed, I threw caution to the wind. (31:35) • I always heard the mortars - never heard this one. And it threw me back. I don’t know what’s going on. One piece of shrapnel peeled my scalp back. (33:20) • All the crazy things I did was to train me for this one night so I could save my men. (42:17) • My last minute in the Army typifies my entire Army career. The finance Corps Major sees me. Goes to his pay clerk and gives an order not to pay me until I get a haircut. (44:06) • One day, I get this box in the mail I open it up and it’s a Silver Star. I didn’t tell anybody. They didn’t know what it was anyway. (46:57) • The doctors told me: “Son, we don’t know if you’re gonna be able to walk again or not. My exact words Wer “Fuck you, I’m walking out of your Goddamn hospital.” (48:49) • President [Bush] looked at me and said and said “Son, I know what it takes to get one of those [Silver Star]. I want to shake your hand.” (58:37) • My life driven by outside forces that I can’t control. (62:25) Socials: - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Policygenius.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2024

Carrying the Torch: Honoring Heroes with Colton Kyle This week, Marcus and Melanie are honored to welcome Colton Kyle, the driving force behind the American Sniper Brand. Colton continues the legacy of his late father, U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, by embodying the values of respect, honor, and patriotism through a line of clothing and accessories. Join us as we delve into Colton’s mission to celebrate and support the heroes among us, and how American Sniper Brand aims to be a symbol of love, sacrifice, and strength. Colton’s dad, U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, was the most lethal sniper in American history. Colton created the American Sniper Brand to honor his father's legacy and to support the men and women who serve our country. A portion of the proceeds from the brand goes to the Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation, which strengthens the marriages of service families. Colton shares stories about his father, Chris Kyle, and the values he stood for. The inspiration behind American Sniper Brand and how it aims to honor the legacy of fallen heroes. The core values of respect, honor, and patriotism that guide the brand. Colton’s vision for American Sniper as a symbol of a warrior's love—love for God, others, and self-discipline. Tune in to hear Colton Kyle's inspiring journey and how he continues to honor his father's legacy while supporting the heroes of today. Don't miss this heartfelt and patriotic episode! In This Episode You Will Hear: • What I did experience [with my dad] was a great love from a great father. • I believe I have a different gifting. (16:02) • I discovered Muay Thai [martial arts] not very long ago and I absolutely love it. (16:26) • I’m very confident in myself and my abilities. (17:14) • Physical training in the martial arts arena means so much more than just being physically capable. (18:12) • God has given me the tools and the people and the resources that I’m gonna be more than okay. (19:33) • I think I’m a better man today than I would have been had I not lost my father. (20:02) • If you’re gonna train a martial artist, you want to put him through the most rigorous and difficult training possible so that they’re prepare to take on anything. (20:18) • You can’t live tomorrow; you can’t life in the past; all you can do is show up and be present in the day. (21:45) • In my head I see a tidal wave that overcompensates for the loss that I had. (22:04) • God gave us life. We’re not even deserving of that, really. (23:09) • God didn’t take my father. He allowed it to happen and I’ve seen the good that was brought through it. (28:20) • I’m passionate, as well, about the firearm and tactical industry. (44:04) • I stand for Godliness. I stand for patriotism, I stand for sacrifice, duty, excellence, professionalism. (44:30) • I’m a visionary, so I see the future in everything. I’m very excited about that. (49:08) • I’m Colton Kyle, and I’m just gonna be Colton Kyle. Whatever Colton Kyle can be he will be. (51:36) • You should strive to be better than your mother; better than you father, in the ways you can control. (55:00) • To be really successful in something, you have to be gifted in that. (56:29) • The greatest you could ever give somebody is to introduce them to Christ. (60:10) Socials: - IG: coltonkyleofficial - americansniper.brand - https://americansniper.com/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Policygenius.com - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2024

Rising Above: A Conversation with Taya Kyle In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie visit with Taya Kyle, an author, political commentator, and military veteran's family activist. Taya is widely known as the widow of US Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, whose story was immortalized in the book and movie "American Sniper." Taya was unexpectedly thrust into the national spotlight when her husband, Chris Kyle, one of America’s greatest heroes, was tragically murdered. Chris Kyle’s legacy as a Navy SEAL and his extraordinary combat tours were shared with the world through his autobiography and its film adaptation. Despite the immense grief and pain, Taya has continued to honor Chris' life and service by dedicating herself to helping others navigate through their own tragedies. As a New York Times best-selling author, Taya’s first book, "American Wife," offers a deeply personal look at her life with Chris. In 2019, she released her second book, "American Spirit," a collection of inspirational short stories about remarkable individuals she has encountered on her journey. Taya’s commitment to uplifting others extends through her foundation, Taya and Chris Kyle Family - Service Marriage Strong, where she provides support and hope to those facing difficult times. Join us for an episode filled with hope, strength, and the enduring American spirit. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [McKnenna] I kind of always looked at everything as negative, and tried to find the negative in things. {21:06) • Go find people that who are so broken themselves. To come out of that is God’s grace. It is 100% God’s grace. (23:57) • Colton said, I’ve never seen an example of spiritual warfare, as much as I saw it with McKenna. (24:37) • [Melanie] We all make mistakes. We’re not born parents (30:51) • The parents are losing their time with the kids, and they’re expecting the schools to do it. I advise every single person to homeschool. Be done. (37:18) • [McKenna] If there is an adult role model who is teaching them and showing them how to act, it is very helpful. (45:52) • There are some [teachers] that enjoy teaching or children, but a lot of them just enjoy power and control. (52:40) • Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation. And Service Marriage Strong. In marriage, 80% of murder-suicide is relationship related, not because of the people in it doing things wrong, but they don’t have the tools they need for a service marriage. (55:18) • We’re coming in to coach them on their strengths and how to use their strengths in marriage. (56:13) • If knowing that you’re not alone in your thoughts that you’ve kept it all to yourself. (57:17) • The happiness of your marriage impacts your children. (57:59) • [Marcus’ advice to Taya] You don’t have to be planning so much. Just show up. Do what you do, and God’s got it covered. (67:53) • Do something that you feel called to do. (69:56) • You have a responsibility to add goodness to the world. (97:21) Socials: - IG: tayakyle - www.tayakyle.com - https://www.tackf.org/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Policygenius.com - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2024

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Sean Glass, a former U.S. Navy SEAL officer and seasoned leadership instructor with Echelon Front. With over 13 years of experience in the SEAL Teams and combat deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Eastern Africa, Sean shares his insights on leadership in both military and business settings. Sean led 5 SEAL platoons in Iraq against Islamic State forces, and was the Officer-in-Charge of training for all West Coast SEAL Teams. In his transition to the business world, Sean became the Chief Operating Officer at a venture-backed construction tech startup, and is currently the Leadership Instructor at Echelon Front, where he is building a decentralized, team-first culture in a rapidly growing company. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sean Glass as he shares invaluable lessons on leadership that can be applied in any high-pressure environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from a true leader who has navigated the challenges of both the battlefield and the boardroom. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Growing up] we had Emus at one time for some reason. (7:46) • I read that book, and something inside me was alive, like “This is what I wanna do” Everything I did after that was asking myself that question: Is this next move gonna help me get into the Navy? and if it’s not, then I didn’t do it. (17:25) • [Marcus] I feel like our saving grace is the fact that we did it for God and country. If you’re a wild child and you wanna have the most fun of your entire life, go into the SEAL teams. (19:36) • Given a boat crew, If you don’t perform - if you screw up, your boat crew get beats for you. Sorry – remediated – gets remediated for you. (24:51) • The less you think about yourself, especially when you’re miserable, the better off you are. (25:18) • [Marcus] If you want to teach your son or yourself to be a great barterer or negotiator, go over there [Afghanistan]. (41:24) • Gift giving is a big thing to them [Afghans]. (41:54) • Getting to be on the other side of the BUDS equation was a great experience, because you get to see all the workings that go into it - all the things you don’t see and appreciate as a student obviously because you’re just trying to survive. (44:21) • I don’t have a good poker face. (45:33) • No one puts a premium on training like the SEAL teams do. It’s everything for us. (54:26) • I closed out my career at the training command which was just the best place you could possibly be. (55:21) • Our goal there [Echelon Front] is to arm their leaders with the tools they need to be better leaders. (65:42) • Jocko started Primal Beef, and our goal was to bring the same farm-raised all natural, Black Angus American beef that we had the opportunity to eat every night to as many Americans as we possibly could. (70:03) • Our whole goal was basically to make things the best experience you could possibly have ordering beef from somebody. (74:49) • Well above 80% of all beef produced in America comes from 4 different massive companies, and at least one of them is a foreign owned company. (77:55) • The average age of a farmer right now is 63 years old, because families just aren’t taking over the family business. (78:06) Socials: - IG: primalbeef_co - IG: seanglassactual - www.primalbeef.com - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Policygenius.com - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2024

In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus & Melanie connect with Josh Smith, Master Bladesmith. His journey into the world of bladesmithing began at the young age of 11, under the mentorship of his baseball coach, Rick Dunkerley. Rick introduced Josh to the art of knife-making, guiding him through the process of removing stock blades. Josh set up his own shop at home, thanks to his father, who provided him space in his equipment shop. By the age of 12, Josh had joined the American Bladesmith Society, marking the start of his formal journey into bladesmithing. At 14, Josh attended the Eugene Oregon knife show, where he met other talented knife makers who generously shared their knowledge with him. This experience further fueled his passion and skill in the craft. At just 15 years old, Josh passed the rigorous Journeyman bladesmith test at the Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia, becoming the youngest bladesmith to achieve this feat. The Journeyman test involves a performance test, where a forged and heat-treated blade must chop a 1” rope and two 2x4s in half and still be able to shave hair. The blade must also withstand a 90-degree bend in a vise without breaking. Following the performance test, the candidate presents five knives to a panel of Mastersmith Judges for evaluation of craftsmanship. Josh didn't stop there. He continued to hone his craft and, at 19, became the youngest bladesmith to earn the prestigious Master Smith rating from the American Bladesmith Society. Tune in to hear more about Josh's incredible journey and the dedication it takes to become a master of bladesmithing! In This Episode You Will Hear: • I passed the Mastersmith test when I was young, so technically, I’m a master bladesmith. • That [Mastersmith] test and getting there was a lot of work over a lot of years, but really what is meant is you’re really now ready to start learning. You can actually absorb what you’re being taught. • If you’re looking back at something you built 20 years ago, and you’re still thinking that’s the best thing you’ve ever done, you’ve really gotta be honest with yourself. You really haven’t come very far. • There’s a picture of me in Blade Magazine when I’m about 12, standing on a milk crate grinding knives. • I was pretty motivated. At 15 years old, I became the youngest journeyman knife-maker in the world, and then at 19 I became the youngest Mastersmith. • I started getting publicity in magazines when I was really young. When I was 16 years old, I probably had 150 knife orders from all over the world. • It’s amazing today, with what’s at your fingertips, you can learn how to do anything right from home. • Nothing even today replaces being in the presence of that master and having them teach you. • Style comes over time. • One thing I’m proud of – I didn’t fall into making one style of a knife. I can do almost anything across the board. That is what a master is. • I won the best Damascus knife award in the world at the Atlanta Blade Show when I was 20 years old. • I’ve sharpened thousands of knives for people. It doesn’t matter who made it. What matters is who carried it. • I don’t need 300million Americans to be my customer. I want the 20-30-40-50 million that are patriotic as hell and appreciate quality. They want that story behind the blade. We’re proving that American manufacturing is not just not dead, but it’s desired by Americans. • Ten years ago, my house burned to the ground. I was completely broke as hell, living in a camper. And today, I’m shaking hands with President Trump, Junior’s coming over and I pig hunted with Rogan. I get to be friends with heroes-our veterans. • People need to keep moving the ball forward and never give up. Socials: - montanaknifecompany - https://www.montanaknifecompany.com/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - GoodRX.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 10 July 2024

Defying Limits: The James Lawrence Story Join us in this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast for an awe-inspiring conversation with James Lawrence, a man who turned his failures into a catalyst for extraordinary achievements. Known as the “Iron Cowboy”, James has set multiple world records in the world of triathlons and endurance sports. From barely finishing his first 5k at 28 to completing 50 full-distance triathlons in 50 states in 50 consecutive days, James's journey is a testament to the power of mental fortitude and relentless determination. James didn’t grow up as an endurance athlete. At the age of 28, he struggled to finish his first 5k. However, this initial failure ignited a competitive spirit within him and a desire to achieve what seemed impossible. James Lawrence’s story is a powerful reminder that our limitations are often self-imposed and that with determination and focus, we can achieve incredible feats. Whether you’re an athlete, a professional, or someone looking to push past personal barriers, James’s journey offers valuable insights and inspiration. In This Episode You Will Hear: • My dad was a firefighter my entire life. He was out there serving and saving. (2:59) • My life changed at the Calgary Stampede. I entered a contest to see who could ride the giant Ferris wheel for the entire 10 days of the stampede. I won the contest. (3:43) • I’ve been a dreamer my entire life. (4:53) • I’m really good at forgiving myself for mistakes that I’ve made in the past. (4:57) • I don’t see things as good or bad in the ups and downs of life. I see them all as opportunities. (7:00) • I could become “woe is me” and become a victim of the economy and the circumstances that was happening. I tried to fine the positive from it. (8:45) • I think 1 door closes and 10 doors open. (10:22) • When you do something and reach that mountaintop, your perspective changes on what’s possible because you’ve changed. (11:43) • We broke the world record for the most Half Ironmans in a year. It was 22 Ironmans in 30 weeks. (12:44) • In 2012 we did official, full-length Ironman races. We did 30 Ironmans in 11 countries in that year. (12:58) • I’m just trying to find out what my limits are as a human. (14:12) • I love setting new standards. (14:26) • In 2015 after the second world record, we did 50 Ironmans in 50 days through all 50 states. (32:23) • In 2021, we did 100 consecutive Ironmans – An Ironman a day for a quarter of a year, 14,000+ miles to raise money to eradicate sex trafficking. (32:48) • What I’m most excited about is our new book: Iron Hope. (33:22) • Constantly show up and pursue greatness for yourself. (38:06) • Sometimes in life we’re gonna have to get up and do things when we don’t want to. (39:29) Socials: - ironcowboyjames - https://www.ironcowboy.com/ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2024

Unmasking Cyber Threats: Insights from Kristofer Healey In this week’s episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie dive deep into the world of cyber security with our special guest, Kristofer Healey and his wife, Lacey. Kristofer is a seasoned expert in cyber security, fraud prevention, and risk management. With years of experience working at the intersection of technology and security, Kristofer brings a wealth of knowledge on how to protect yourself and your organization in the digital age. Kristofer is an expert on telefraud whose criminal investigative work has been featured in national media profiles, most notably his work investigating India-based call center networks targeting American citizens. Listen in for some great stories about Kristofer’s journey in entrepreneurship and how you can protect yourself and your business. Kristofer is also a sought-after speaker and consultant, providing strategic advice on preventing cyber-attacks and managing risk in an increasingly connected world. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I worked for ICE down there [South Texas] for about 3 years, and I got picked up by the internal affairs group – Office of the Inspector General – around the time that the gulf cartel was going through a civil war. Cardenas gets extradited to the U.S. He started diming out every dirty Border Patrol Agent, every dirty CDP officer that he had paid money to. I got thrown right in the fire of going after all these dirty and corrupt Border Patrol officers and CDP officers. (6:59) • I always tell my victims [of phone scams] is you’re gonna get a lot more justice than restitution. (17:07) • They [phone scammers] get hung up on all the time, but it only takes one to make their week. (21:15) • The 2 generations that fell victim the most were the 70+ (the boomers) and the younger folks that grew up on the internet. (27:32) • These [phone scams] are incredibly smart schemes. (33:18) • Once you do something insanely hard, everything else seems like something you can accomplish. (35:52) • We indicted 61 people in 5 call centers in the U.S. and India. (42:25) • She [One of the victims] lost 2 million dollars. She was 82 years old. A retired teacher. Lost every dollar she had. She lost everything. (58:45) • The IRS scam was very effective, but because we took it down they don’t do that anymore. (63:05) • For our seniors – people on Facebook in particular – stay off Marketplace. (70:50) • When you introduce voluntary adversity throughout your life, you’ll always have a well of experiences you can draw from that are going to make you stronger when the adversity is involuntary. (92:09) • We think we’re going the direction we need to be going in, and God reminds us you’re not in charge. (93:08) • It’s not what happens to you. It’s how you react. (96:29) • Life isn’t what happens. It’s what you do with what happens. (96:41) Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - Robinhood.com - qualialife.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2024

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Team Never Quit podcast. Today, we are honored to host Bill Wagasy, a decorated U.S. Navy SEAL veteran, former Notre Dame football player, and current VP of national sales for Commonwealth Land Title Company. Bill's journey from the gridiron to the battlefield and beyond is nothing short of extraordinary. In college, Bill played as a reserve outside linebacker under Coach Lou Holtz, and harnessed the lasting influence of Coach Holtz’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Post-college, Bill pursued a law degree and a master’s in dispute resolution from Pepperdine University. However, driven by a deep sense of duty, Bill joined the Navy and became a Navy SEAL, completing four combat tours between 2002 and 2012—three in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. His specialties included lead sniper, lead breacher, JTAC, and lead navigator. After his military career, Bill discusses the transition to civilian life and working with the Gary Sinise Foundation, and the importance of resilience, duty, and honor in his life and career. We are deeply grateful to Bill Wagasy for sharing his powerful story. His unwavering dedication to service and the indomitable spirit he embodies serve as an inspiration to us all. In This Episode You Will Hear: • The first time she [my sister] ever did Boston [marathon] was the year of the bombing. That was the first public event I ever went to when I got out of the SEAL teams. (16:08) • I feel like a wonderful, all-American upbringing. (22:28) • My coach [at Notre Dame] was coach [Lou] Holtz. (27:43) • One of the greatest things I can say about him [Coach Lou Holtz] – He brought an intensity and a passion every single day for five years I was there. He never had an off day. (27:57) • Do what’s right. It’s not right to find your teammate’s wallet before he loses it. (28:52) • The way you show people you care – is if your part of a team, you have to put forth incredible effort and mental focus. Do your best in every single facet, from execution and preparation. (29:17) • Every day, you’ve gotta bring it. (29:51) • There’s nothing that anybody could’ve ever said to me when I was going through SEAL training that would have the effect of what Coach Holtz said to me. (32:42) • There’s a huge jump between having a dream, and having the courage to follow it. (43:57) • While we were in sniper school, that’s when Operation Red Wings went down. (69:20) • When they found you [Marcus Luttrell] it was like a miracle, like no one could believe that you were alive. It was bittersweet because we lost everybody else. (81:46) • Our fastest sniper rifle shoots about 3,000 feet per second, and an explosive goes somewhere around 12,000 to 25,000 feet per second. (95:02) • I was in a vehicle rollover where I shattered my right wrist, and had a level 5 shoulder separation on my left side. I was in the hospital for ten days. (103:59) • He (Gary Sinise) truly lived the example of “We can never do enough for our veterans, but we can always do a little bit more.” (131:10) • If you were to ask me what 2 years I would never want to repeat again in my life, it’s the 2 years transitioning out of the military into the private sector and starting from scratch at 42 years old. • I had 1 superpower in BUDS and that was taking cold water and just splattering everybody. (156:24)

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2024

Conquering Fear and Leading with Courage: Insights from Retired Navy SEAL Stephen Kaplan Welcome to this week’s episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, where Marcus & Melanie Luttrell dive deep into the realms of leadership, courage, and strategic thinking with an extraordinary guest. Today, we are honored to have Stephen Kaplan, a retired Navy SEAL, keynote speaker, business consultant, and leadership expert. Stephen has dedicated over 20 years to mastering tactics, organizational leadership, strategic thinking, and professional team building. After his illustrious military career as a Navy SEAL, he has been transforming corporations, teams, and individuals through his insights and expertise. Stephen shares his perspective on what it truly means to be courageous, emphasizing that being "fearless" is an illusion. True courage is about facing and conquering fears. Steve's adventure business, Trident Adventures is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The company specializes in leadership and team-building experiences that offer an adventure of a lifetime. Learn how these adventures provide teams with a unique edge in leadership development. Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills, build stronger teams, or simply get inspired by a story of transformation, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Resources and Links: TridentAdventures.com LinkedIn: Stephen Kaplan In this episode you will hear: • After I Graduated High School, I went to Bible College to be a Pastor. I felt was that’s where I was supposed to be. That was calling on my life. (5:32) • [Marcus] Q: What was the one thing in BUDS that got you? A: I put a stick through my forearm on the obstacle course. (15:34) • [On the obstacle course] my heart’s pumping like crazy. I’m excited. I’m in BUDS. There’s 300 guys and I’m thinking I’m gonna be the guy that doesn’t quit, and I throw myself over the wall, and when I hop off the other end of it, I hear a snap. (17:06) • The next obstacle was the high wall with the rope, so I go to grab it, and my hand doesn’t work. I look at my arm and there was a big stick sticking through. (17:28) • I didn’t know how to swim when I signed up. (21:21) • You’ll become a good swimmer at BUDS, for sure, but you won’t become a good runner at BUDS. You’ll get worse. (22:34) • I blew out my ear drum really bad. They had to cut my ear off, and replace the membrane in my ear with a skin graft. (26:54) • On the second day of hell week, I stepped in a hole in the sand and I hyperextended my knee and tore a bunch of stuff in my knee and ankle. Now I’ve got a bum leg, I’m in day 2 of hell week, and I had such a bad infection in my ear, that it actually rotted a hole in my tympanic membrane. (28:20) • I do not look like the type of person that should be lifting the type of weights I can lift. (50:55) • [After having shortness of breath and chest pain for days, I was commanded to go to the ER] They do all the x-rays and all the blood tests, and the doctor says, “How long have you had these symptoms?” “5 days, I think.” “You’re supposed to be dead.” (55:47) • I had to have 2 nurses hold me up, because if laid down, I’d pass out and die. My friends came by to say goodbye. I ended up not dying. (56:26) • I was a SEAL tech advisor for Hawaii 5-O, Magnum PI and a couple of other shows. (58:44) • Everybody has fear, Team guys have fear. We’re not fearless. What we do is that we overcome our fear because we have courage. Courage is not the lack of fear, it’s what you do in the face of fear. (62:35) • We’re the only operation [Trident Adventures] – I think in the world – that’s allowed to have civilians jump out of a helicopter into the ocean or a body of water. (63:28) • I used to love free diving, but I lost most of my lungs when I had the pulmonary embolism, so my breath hold now is embarrassing – maybe 30 seconds. (64:32) • [Marcus] In SEAL teams, we will name something funny like Seal Transport Device (STD). 65:11) • I choose to take my previous chapter of my life, and thru my entrepreneurship and my company and how I conduct myself. Through my integrity and my character I want to be that guy that makes people look at the teams in a higher regard because of how I carry myself. (73:33) Socials: - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2024

Mastering Fear and Building Resilience with Evy Poumpouras In this compelling episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with the incredible Evy Poumpouras, former Secret Service Agent, author, and expert in resilience and personal empowerment. Evy shares her journey from protecting presidents to empowering individuals to face their fears and build unshakeable resilience. She provides practical strategies for managing fear, handling stress, and cultivating a mindset that can thrive in any situation. As a Secret Service Agent, Evy served under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton. She is the author of "Becoming Bulletproof: Protect Yourself, Read People, Influence Situations, and Live Fearlessly." She is a renowned speaker and media commentator, frequently appearing on networks like CNN, MSNBC, and NBC. Her expertise in body language, lie detection, and personal protection makes her a sought-after expert in the fields of security and resilience. Evy’s actions as a first responder during the 9/11 terror attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City bestowed her the United States Secret Service Valor Award. Resources: Book: Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras Evy’s Website: evypoumpouras.com Follow Evy on Social Media: Instagram, Twitter @evypoumpouras In this episode you will hear: • I was born in Harlem, New York. My parents were immigrants – they’re Greek. (9:50) • My dad’s first job in America – he worked for free. (12:04) • [Growing up] Fun was when the fire department would open up the fire hydrants, and we’d run through them. That was “going to the pool.” (13:57) • I’ve always trusted my [inner] voice – whatever it is – intuition, instinct. I would listen to it. (18:22) • I’m brave if I’m in proximity of other brave people. (19:30) • When I applied to the Secret Service and before that, NYPD, I never asked what am I getting paid? (22:55) • Everything I was able to do, happened here, and there’s no question in my mind, had I been born in Greece – I say this with all humility, there’s no way I would’ve ever been a secret service agent, there’s no way I would’ve ever been a cop. (39:20) • After 9/11, the tone changed significantly. [People became] very much supportive of first responders. (42:10) • [In the 9-11 experience] there were no injuries that day. You either lived, or you died. (59:51) • That was the saddest part, I thought “I’m gonna die all by myself here – completely alone.” (69:33) • Those situations show you who people really are. Even training won’t reveal that, until you see who does what, and who’s capable of what. (80:25) • [Marcus] The best comes out in everybody when we all get hit at the same time. (81:11) • [Marcus} I think 9-11 recreated a different kind of America. (84:38) • I never dealt with the victims, I dealt with the suspects and the perpetrators. (99:52) • I learned when I was an interviewer, certain countries torture certain ways. (110:04) • I think our next big attack is gonna be a cyber-attack. (120:23) Socials: - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2024

Building a Bridge Between Two Worlds with Aaron Kendle In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary journey of Aaron Kendle, who dedicated 16 years to the Navy SEALs, completing six deployments. Kendle began his career as a medic, advanced to become a sniper, and eventually served as a sky-diving instructor for the West Coast SEALs in San Diego. Transitioning from military to civilian life, Kendle embraced a new mission as the CEO of the SEAL Future Fund (SFF), an organization devoted to helping fellow SEALs transition into civilian life and careers, with the creation of tailored resumes, professional coaching, and networking opportunities. Despite a devastating accident that required hand amputation and the discovery and treatment of his life-threatening aortic aneurysm, Aaron proves firsthand that perspective, attitude and determination go a long way in life. Tune in to hear Aaron Kendle’s full story and gain valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of community in supporting life transitions. In this episode you will hear: • Q: So what was it that made you want to become a Navy SEAL? A: I started thinking about it before I graduated. 9-11 is what shifted my path. (7:37) • I still going to the VFW. I still love talking to those older guys. It’s a different mindset. (11:14) • I heard my name going to Gold Team. As the classes get smaller and smaller, the guys get tighter. (44:33) • We were living in Morgan’s house. Every Wednesday, if we were all together, we would go to Outback Steakhouse and get Chocolate Thunder. (50:48) • Aaron speaks about “Extortion,” when 30 servicemen were killed when a Chinook helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan. (57:25) • 2 days later when everything opened up, I remember calling my dad on a sat phone, saying “Hey, it’s me. I’m alive. I’d love to stay and chat, but there’s a bunch of stuff going on.” (61:59) • The older guys that did 20-30 years. Those are the guys trying to figure out what’s the next step? (81:13) • Aaron tells the most ridiculous and compelling story of an accident that resulted in having his hand amputated, and the subsequent hilarious events that followed. (82:12) • “You have an Aortic aneurism. Your Aorta is way oversized.” (98:09) During Covid I’m out there skateboarding. Made this turn, hit a wet patch, and landed directly on my nub. (103:35) • I had a seizure. Out of nowhere. (104:18) If I don’t have a goal for something, then I’m not doing anything. (109:16) • Starting running is the worst feeling of all time. To stand there and then begin to run is terrible. (110:13) • I think I owe it to people. 1 - I’m not dead. If I can go out there and suffer a little bit to help motivate people, and make ‘em better than I am, that’s our goal. (123:23) Socials: - IG: redmanda252 - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2024

From Video Gamer to Professional Driver with Jann Mardenborough In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie bring you an incredible story that bridges the virtual and real worlds of racing. Join us as we dive into the fascinating journey of Jann Mardenborough, a British professional racing driver who went from playing sim racing video games to competing at the highest levels of motorsport. Jann’s passion for racing ignited at a young age. Despite his father's professional soccer career, Jann dreamed of holding a steering wheel. Growing up in Cardiff, Wales, his potential was clear even at age 8 when he impressed a local go-kart track owner. However, financial constraints forced him to give up real-world racing, pushing him towards sim racing games like Gran Turismo. The turning point came in 2011 when Jann entered the GT Academy, a hybrid gaming-driving competition by Nissan and Sony Computer Entertainment. Competing against 90,000 entrants, Jann’s exceptional skills in Gran Turismo 5 propelled him to the finals. His dedication saw him practicing up to five hours a day on a simulator rig complete with pedals and a steering wheel. Jann's journey through the GT Academy was nothing short of extraordinary. Starting from virtual races, he proved his mettle on real tracks at Brands Hatch and Silverstone. His performance culminated in a winner-take-all race at Silverstone, securing him a professional racing contract with Nissan. From winning the GT Academy, Jann quickly made a name for himself in the racing world. He has since finished on the podium in his class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, won races, and contended for titles in GT3 and junior formula cars. His career highlights also include competing in Super GT, Super Formula, and the FIA World Endurance Championship. We’ll also touch on the Gran Turismo movie, which dramatizes the story of how a video gamer like Jann transitioned into a professional racing driver. This film highlights the transformative impact of the GT Academy and showcases the merging of virtual and real-world racing. Jann’s story is a testament to how passion and dedication can turn dreams into reality, regardless of how unachievable they may seem. Tune in to hear more about his incredible journey from a bedroom gamer to a professional driver on some of the world's most prestigious tracks. In this episode you will hear: • My dad isn’t an academic person, but he really instilled in me and my younger brother – things about life. You have one life. He was paid to do something he loved. (6:07) • When you’re 8 or 9 years old, you don’t really understand, but as you get older – what do I want to do? And my thing was racing. I didn’t know how I was going to do it. It was always instilled in my head – the understanding what the job was. I thought to myself “I want to do that. I don’t know how I’m going to get there, but I want to do that.” (6:26) • It was through my friends – the love of cars, and the objects, and the pictures. I had them on my wall. (8:38) • I was a kid that could recognize a car on the street in the dark just by the headlights as a 6 year-old. (9:50) • With my dad, when I was younger, he never forced anything on me. (17:39) • [Melanie] Q: Using the video game simulation, did you ever think that that was actually going to propel you into real racing? A: No. Absolutely not. It wasn’t a conscious thought. My dream was always to be a racing driver, but I didn’t know how it would happen. (25:52) • I used to go to work with the keys of my BMW which I had maybe 6 months. I would always go to work with the key in my pocket. That little BMW emblem on the key ring – I’d be rubbing it in my pocket, just thinking, “This isn’t it, what I’m doing, but I have at least something which was bringing me joy.” (26:53) • Confidence and arrogance. People want to give you responsibility. If you’re a bit soft with your answers – the first impressions are what really matter. (41:11) • Every day in the academy, there was somebody getting eliminated. (41:41) • I box things off in my head, once I learn about them, and I don’t revisit them. (50:49) • [His car went airborne] A horrible point in my life. I remember it vividly. (51:34) • [Melanie] As [Marcus’] wife, I see the parallel between the two of you. Both of you never quit. (52:46) • My favorite championship race is the one in Japan. It’s called GT500. (64:51) • In motorsports, even in Formula 1, you have 1 tire supplier. (65:25) • Yes, there’s things I want to do in the sport. I want my own race team. (67:42) • Be the best that you can be. (71:35) Photo creds: - Ligier Automotive Socials: - https://www.jannthaman.com/ - IG: @jannthaman - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2024

Exploring Mental Health Through Visual Storytelling with Brandon Kapelow This week on the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie speak with Brandon Kapelow, a versatile visual artist hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Wyoming. With a diverse portfolio encompassing directing, photography, and cinematography, Brandon's creative journey is as dynamic as the landscapes he captures. But there's more to Brandon's story than meets the eye. At an early age, he endured the tragic loss of his dad to suicide, an experience that profoundly shaped his artistic endeavors and personal mission. Now, as a survivor and advocate, Brandon channels his passion into exploring themes of mental health through his work. Brandon delves into the complexities of mental health with a keen eye and compassionate heart. Beyond academia, he extends his support to those affected by suicide loss as a peer-support group facilitator. Join us as we traverse the intersections of art, resilience, and healing with Brandon Kapelow. From the rugged landscapes of Wyoming to the bustling streets of LA and Vancouver, Brandon's nomadic lifestyle mirrors his insatiable curiosity for the human experience. In this episode you will hear: • I struggle with a succinct way to categorize what I do, because I really try my best to be a chameleon at times. (4:45) • So you’re having these dramatic swings between one extreme and the other. On one end of that spectrum you have like the depressive, down quality, and the opposite side you have mania – hyperactivity, lots of energy, feeling like you’re king of the world. (7:44) • I was a bit of a nerd in high school. I was in the speech and debate team. (9:18) • Words do matter. (19:32) • Even the word “triggering” is something that we try to avoid using now, because that evokes imagery of a specific thing that might be upsetting to certain people. (23:44) • If each of us can encourage one other person to model slightly better behavior, then we’re gonna live in a better world. (25:07) • People really don’t take unsolicited advice. (28:19) • If you’re concerned about somebody, really just be direct with them and let them know that you are concerned, particularly with suicide. (31:31) • The one thing that you can access anywhere in this country is the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Call 9-8-8. (34:50) • If you know a person who has access to something that they can use to kill themselves, work with them to try to remove access to whatever that might be. (37:10) • [Marcus] When you into a situation, don’t let the situation affect you. You go in there to affect the situation. (42:02) • We have to separate people’s external circumstances from their feeling of worth, purpose, and meaning in life. (46:58) • I work with a lot of veterans, because they are a particularly at risk group for suicide and other mental health challenges. (48:33) • Vulnerability is a source of strength. (59:44) • [Melanie] When I was introduced to psychedelic medicine, and I saw how it was helping so many people, I couldn’t keep my blinders on. I started to do research and seeing how it was changing lives. (66:56) • It’s one thing to have a self-guided experience. It’s another thing to have a mental health professional there with you while you’re undergoing this experience to really maximize the benefits. (72:08) Socials: - https://youtu.be/VqdWscD-STk?si=IWIYw6TC9ggnVQC_ - https://www.brandonkapelow.com/ - IG: bkapelow - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - PXG.com/TNQ - Hims.com/TNQ - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - Shopify.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2024

In this week's episode, Marcus and Melanie are honored to host April Cheek-Messier, a key figure in preserving the legacy and lessons of one of the most pivotal moments in history: D-Day. April is the President of the National D-Day Memorial Foundation, an organization dedicated to upholding the memory of the Allied Forces' valor, fidelity, and sacrifice on June 6, 1944. As the President of the Foundation, she plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity and security of the National D-Day Memorial while advancing its educational mission. During our conversation, April sheds light on the Foundation's multifaceted approach to fulfilling its mission. We delve into how the Foundation maintains and operates the National D-Day Memorial, providing a solemn and educational space for visitors to honor and learn about the events of D-Day. Through various programs, projects, and exhibitions, the Foundation strives to cultivate an appreciation for the historical and residual significance of D-Day. Join Marcus and Melanie us as we gain insights into the tireless work of April Cheek-Messier and the National D-Day Memorial Foundation in preserving the legacy of D-Day and ensuring that future generations understand the profound impact of this historic event. In this episode you will hear: • I grew up in Bedford, Virginia, which was a community impacted heavily by World War II. (3:50) • Bedford sustained the highest per capita loss on D-Day. (4:28) • 16 million served in World War II, and we have less than 1% living today. (7:32) • Like so many veterans, they didn’t talk about it. They tried to forget about it. (10:47) • It became [Bob Slaughter’s] goal to make sure there was something to commemorate those who gave their life on D-Day. (11:48) • In 1996, congress decided there should be a National D-Day Memorial. (12:45) • We are not federally funded. It was a grass roots efforts by veterans. (13:03) • What joy it brought Bob Slaughter and his veteran friends to know that they did it. (13:46) • Over 400,000 families during World War II lost a loved one. (17:16) • There were 3 sets of brothers who served on D-Day. (18:41) • It’s when you’re able to tell the individual stories that young people can understand the tragedy of war and what was accomplished that day was so very critical. (24:29) • Believe it or not, there was nowhere – not even in Normandy - a list of who died on June 6, 1944. (25:21) • The more we can work together to make sure these stories are told is incredibly important. (32:23) • D-Day was critical. It was going to be the turning point of the war in Western Europe. It was Operation Overlord, which was to invade German-occupied France. (33:25) • The consequences were dire. This had to happen. They had to succeed. (35:56) • 5,000 ships, 11,000 aircraft, just on D-Day alone. 160,000 troops and over 150,000 landing on June 6th alone. (36:50) Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Shopify.com/TNQ - Mackweldon.com [TNQ] - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Robinhood.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2024

Chris Caracci – Part 2 – From SEAL Team Six to Law Enforcement: A Journey of Tactical Mastery This week, the Team Never Quit Podcast brings you Part 2 of Marcus and Melanie’s discussion with Chris Caracci, a distinguished figure with over two decades of combined military and law enforcement experience. Chris's journey from serving with SEAL Team One and Team Six to becoming a leading authority in practical and tactical techniques is both inspiring and enlightening. Chris’s illustrious career began with a six-year commitment in the U.S. Navy, where he served with unparalleled distinction in SEAL Team One and Team Six, specializing in anti-terrorism operations. Transitioning from his military service, Chris spent nine years as a sworn tactical officer, operating in diverse environments across New York, New Jersey, and South Florida. His expertise in SWAT operations and narcotics enforcement earned him recognition as a top-tier operative and trainer, sought after by both local and federal agencies. Chris shares compelling accounts of Medal of Honor recipients going back to the Vietnam War. Today, Chris's dedication to personal protection and private training keeps him at the forefront of the field, where maintaining peak physical and mental conditioning is paramount. With a profound understanding of real-life conflicts, Chris brings a unique perspective to his classes, teaching from both the heart and the mind. Gain insights into Chris's firsthand experiences with real-life conflicts and the strategies needed to navigate them successfully. Don't miss this week’s Part 2 episode as we delve into more details of Chris Caracci’s military and law enforcement service - a true master of tactical expertise. In this episode you will hear: • [Marcus] I remember being in hell week, around the world, rowing that boat. I looked over at the guys in my boat and I said, “Hey guys, we’re in the books, we’re in the movies right now. • The things that I read about in the books is what we were doing. {16:36) • If I can’t see my target I’m not shooting. I don’t shoot to make noise. (34:20) • [Marcus] Imagine if a football play lasted until you actually scored a touchdown – without stopping. It’s kinda what it’s like for us. (47:48) • Sometimes, you have to face the truth that what we do and how we do it. We CAN do it and not everybody can do it. (58:30) • SEAL Teams have never left anyone behind – ever. (74:43) • We had three Medal of Honors that went out in Vietnam. (84:54) • For a SEAL to be awarded and it’s not about medal, we’re talking about a validation for something they did. It’s very hard for frogmen to get that because every day are those kinds of missions. (84:00) • Just training. SEAL Teams kill more people in peacetime than anyone has a clue about. (89:59) Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Shopify.com/TNQ - Mackweldon.com [TNQ] mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Robinhood.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2024

Chris Caracci - From SEAL Team Six to Law Enforcement: A Journey of Tactical Mastery In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Markus and Melanie are honored to host Chris Caracci, a distinguished figure with over two decades of combined military and law enforcement experience. Chris's journey from serving with SEAL Team One and Team Six to becoming a leading authority in practical and tactical techniques is both inspiring and enlightening. Chris’s illustrious career began with a six-year commitment in the U.S. Navy, where he served with unparalleled distinction in SEAL Team One and Team Six, specializing in anti-terrorism operations. Transitioning from his military service, Chris spent nine years as a sworn tactical officer, operating in diverse environments across New York, New Jersey, and South Florida. His expertise in SWAT operations and narcotics enforcement earned him recognition as a top-tier operative and trainer, sought after by both local and federal agencies. Chris shares compelling accounts of Medal of Honor recipients going back to the Vietnam War. Today, Chris's dedication to personal protection and private training keeps him at the forefront of the field, where maintaining peak physical and mental conditioning is paramount. With a profound understanding of real-life conflicts, Chris brings a unique perspective to his classes, teaching from both the heart and the mind. Gain insights into Chris's firsthand experiences with real-life conflicts and the strategies needed to navigate them successfully. Don't miss this compelling episode as we delve into the details of Chris Caracci’s military and law enforcement service - a true master of tactical expertise. In this episode you will hear: • Marines are unique people. (7:53) • I was only really good at climbing, and I was always climbing buildings. (12:52) • I just happened to close a door and looked behind it, and what do I see? I see these twin 72 cubic inch scuba tanks. I grabbed ‘em and they were [made of] Styrofoam! (28:34) • If I ever come up with something like Dementia, I hope I’m brave enough to identify it and go for a long swim. (35:21) • In battle you learn one thing. [You need] water, and ammunition. (36:45) • When you hit the water, you only got a matter of minutes, and if that parachute gets saturated, it’s an anchor. You’re going down. End of story. (38:26) • If you never quit, you’ll never know how to. (39:37) • [Marcus] The only reason I knew I could make it, it because I made it through hell week. (40:47) • The reason they don’t give us – in my day – more psychological techniques, and even some physiological tricks – they wanna see who’s gonna do it on their own. (45:48) • Free fall is difficult because there’s no gravity. (49:39) • You still did one thing together – you get up in line and you examine each other’s equipment to make sure the guys are squared away and nothing bad’s gonna happen. (57:42) • One of the reasons I was really driven to be a frog man was because they weren’t designed for any other purpose other than warfare. (60:59) • There were so many cold war frogmen that were ready. There was no war but we were ready. (70:40) • One of the first things I learned is that it wasn’t about muscle, it wasn’t about brawn – it was about the mind. (83:24) • You can’t change the world. You have to learn how to navigate accordingly. (93:41) • Where is there a war I can get in? Where can I stand up for somebody and fight but for a reason, for a purpose. (96:01) • Life may be boring to me, but what makes life is being able to share it with someone special. (99:23) Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Mackweldon.com [TNQ] - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Robinhood.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shopify.com/TNQ - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2024

Surviving the Unthinkable: A Law Enforcement Officer's Story of Courage and Recovery In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with Julie Werhnyak, a former Tempe, Arizona police officer whose life changed forever on March 3, 2015. Julie shares her harrowing experience, the split-second decisions she had to make, and how she drew upon her training and resilience to survive being stabbed in the neck. Julie had a routine before starting her shift. But on that fateful Tuesday morning, she sensed something was amiss. A premonition led her to alter her routine and mentally prepare for what lay ahead. Responding to a call for a welfare check, Julie and a colleague encountered a situation that quickly escalated. As they attempted to gain entry to the residence, Julie's worst fears were realized. A violent suspect emerged, armed and dangerous. In a split-second decision, Julie confronted the assailant, risking her life to protect others. Julie's bravery came at a cost. She sustained severe injuries during the confrontation, but her training and resolve kept her focused on survival. With the support of her colleagues and medical personnel, Julie began her journey towards recovery. Despite the physical and emotional toll of her ordeal, Julie returned to duty, driven by a sense of duty and resilience. However, the challenges didn't end there. Julie reflects on the importance of proper psychological support for law enforcement officers facing trauma. After two decades of service, Julie recently retired from the force. With her company, Artemis Self-Defense, Julie continues to empower others through tactical and self-defense education. Her story serves as a testament to the power of training, resilience, and community support. Julie Werhnyak's journey is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the strength it takes to overcome adversity. In this episode you will hear: • My best never quit story would’ve been during my martial arts training and because of those never quit moments, that’s how I was able to survive the stabbing that I incurred. (5:50) • Every day I put on my Tempe Police uniform I spoke some version of mantra which is “I accept and expect I will be involved in a lethal encounter today, and I will do everything I can to insure my survival.” (8:36) • As soon as the muzzle of my gun touches his body, and I fire my first round, the knife penetrates my neck, just above the left clavicle. (19:24) • I started on my tactical breathing to slow everything down, so that hopefully I would bleed out. (21:31) • My first thought was, “Oh shit”, not because I was scared but because I knew I couldn’t get out of the way and I was gonna be stabbed. (28:32) • The trauma doctor attributed not only my survival but her [the victim’s] survival to physical conditioning. (29:35) • It missed my carotid [artery] by less than an inch. (33:05) • [The perpetrator] was a 26 year old guy with his whole life ahead of him. He had a family who loved him. (35:07) • I survived because I was prepared. (39:16) • I wasn’t thinking I was gonna die, I was too focused on living. (39:47) • I knew that if I was in a knife fight I would probably be cut, but it would be what I did next that mattered. (44:18) Socials: - juliewerhnyak.com - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Mackweldon.com [TNQ] - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Robinhood.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shopify.com/TNQ - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2024

From Service to Trauma to Triumph. In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus brings to the table Mack Alexander, who persevered through a traumatic brain injury while serving in Special Operations as a Navy SEAL. He was medically retired after an injury while deployed in Africa. Mack initially turned to leather crafting as a therapeutic activity following his injury. His creations started with repurposing old belts from the Salvation Army into dog collars. However, his trajectory changed when a former teammate requested a belt for an upcoming deployment. Drawing from his military experience, Mack designed a belt he knew could meet the demands of an operator's life. The quality and durability of his belts gained widespread popularity, setting the stage for the inception of Mack Belts. His commitment to quality and patriotism he sourced his materials exclusively from the United States and started Mack Belts. At the core of every handmade Mack Belt are vintage American-made machines, some of which date back to 1940 like this Brown & Sharpe automatic screw machine below. These resilient machines, with their sturdy steel frames and timeless designs, are more than historic; they embody a time when meticulous craftsmanship was the norm, and these vintage marvels are the machines that guard the legacy of Mack Belts. Mack embarked on a mission to become the new leader of the American belt industry. In a world dominated by mass production and dwindling quality, Mack Belts emerges as a beacon of American craftsmanship, blending heritage with innovation under the visionary leadership of Mack Alexander. Join us this week as we delve into Mack's inspiring journey from Navy SEAL to founder of a burgeoning belt company, rooted in patriotism and dedication to quality. In this episode you will hear: • If I was gonna give my brother something, it had to be perfect, because with a charge, if it’s not built correctly, somebody gets hurt or it doesn’t work. (1:16) • The attraction of the SEAL Teams – Did you have what it takes to make it through that training. To be in a group of men like that doing what we do, was like a dream. (13:06) • No matter where you are in life, grab a mentor, and then when you get to that place where you think you can give back, be that mentor. (17:35) • In a [one] year time frame, I had 3 pretty bad TBIs (Traumatic Brain Injuries). (28:54) • [Due to] post concussive Syndrome, I kinda lost my mind. (29:25) • I got to a point where I didn’t want to live anymore because my purpose – I wasn’t ever gonna find it out there. (32:55) • The first time you see an American service member who’s give his life for freedom, with an American flag covering his body coming home – and you’re standing watch over him – that American flag means something completely different after you’ve experienced that. (33:18) • You gotta be grateful. I have a second chance at life, and I need to make the most of it. (34:31) • I went from hero to zero. I went from this dude with a title and status, and here I was living in the back of my truck. (37:44) • I try to love everybody and anybody that I can, and try to be that good example and be the change I wanna see. (38:31) • Leathercraft felt good to me. I’m a Breacher, and high RPM machinery gets me jacked up, there’s no peace there for me. (44:50) • I created a lot of my own problems because I was just a mess, on a bunch of pills and kinda off my rocker. (45:23) • With $41, and I’ve hit a million dollars in revenue. (58:11) • Everything bad I had to go through, led me to where I am right now, which is sitting in a chair in front of Markus Luttrell. (60:51) • When I buried my old self and put on this new way, and rebuilt on the word, everything fell into place. (61:25) • I put John 3:16 on every box. (62:37) • God has a plan for my life. He’s put this passion in my heart & given me this skill. (66:24) • I was redeemed by putting my faith in Christ. (66:54) Socials: - https://macksbelts.com/ - macks_belts - https://www.youtube.com/@macksbelts?app=desktop - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Aura.com/TNQ - Moink.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Mackweldon.com [TNQ] - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Robinhood.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shopify.com/TNQ - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2024

Thriving Across Sea, Air, Land, and Space. In this week's Team Never Quit episode, we are honored to host a true hero of our time, Captain Chris Cassidy. With a decorated dual career as a U.S. Navy Captain (SEAL) and NASA Astronaut, Captain Cassidy's journey across the sea, air, land, and outer space is nothing short of inspirational. Captain Cassidy shares his remarkable journey from the U.S. Naval Academy to becoming NASA’s 15th Chief Astronaut. He delves into the transition from serving as a member of the U.S. Navy SEALs to embarking on spaceflight missions, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and perseverance in the face of challenges. As a proven leader of diverse teams, both in the military and at NASA, Captain Cassidy provides invaluable insights into effective leadership. Drawing from his experiences as a commander of the International Space Station and various military deployments, he highlights the significance of collaboration, communication, and developing trust in achieving common goals. Captain Cassidy empowers the never-quit mindset and supports others on their journey to success. He emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and serving as a source of inspiration for future generations. As we look to the stars and beyond, his story serves as a reminder that with determination and leadership, anything is possible. Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Captain Chris Cassidy, as we explore the depths of the ocean, the heights of space, and the limitless potential of the human spirit. In this episode you will hear: • Looking for a way to pay for school is what led me to the Navy. (5:58) • In a small town in Maine, people play football and soccer, and Friday the season ends, on Monday basketball starts, and when that season ended, baseball started. (6:41) • I didn’t even know [the SEALS] were a thing. I just knew I could be in the Navy and they would help me pay for college. (7:18) • If it’s the head of human resources voice you hear [on the phone], you’re not gonna be an astronaut, but if it’s the chief astronaut, like the commanding officer, then it might be a good call. (23:01) • Come to work with a good attitude and grind, and you’ll be asked to do things, and doors will open. (26:47) • I wanted to go to space. It was really that simple. Once I got selected, I just wanted to do my first mission. (29:11) • If you don’t have a little pucker factor, you don’t understand the physics that are going on behind you. (34:15) • A rendezvous to the Space Station is kinda like that line drive throw. We have to launch at exactly the right moment when the Space Station is in the perfect spot in the sky, so that we rendezvous together. (38:43) • When you land on water, it might be softer, but the mission is not over until you’re on the ship. (45:21) • [After a space mission] you’re very uncoordinated, very wobbly, very unstable. We’re not allowed to drive a car for 2 weeks, or ride a bicycle for2weeks. It takes about a month to be normal again. (45:47) • If you have a fire, you gotta put it out. If you can’t put it out, you close hatches, and isolate compartments. If it overcomes the whole thing, you gotta leave. (50:04) • There’s no air molecules around you, so, if you kick, you’re not pushing against anything – there’s no force to react against. (53:38) Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Moink.com/TNQ - PXG.com/TNQ - Mackweldon.com [TNQ] - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Robinhood.com - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ] - Shopify.com/TNQ - Shhtape.com [TNQ] - Policygenius.com

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2024