Podcast Summary
Explosive Ordinance Disposal: EOD technicians play a vital role in protecting people from hidden explosive threats, requiring great courage and a strong commitment to safety
The role of Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) technicians, like the one in the story, is crucial in protecting soldiers and civilians from hidden explosive threats. The job is risky and requires great courage, as these technicians often have to expose themselves to danger to defuse bombs. The story illustrates the importance of their work and the potential consequences if they are not present or if the bombs are not defused in time. Growing up, Nick Kush, the EOD technician in the story, discovered his love for surfing and barely made it through high school because of it. He didn't join the surf team but surfed every chance he got. His father, who worked in finance, was good with numbers but didn't have a formal education. Despite the risks and challenges, Kush chose to become an EOD technician, and his experiences and lessons learned will be shared in the podcast.
Military Influences and Surfing: The speaker's upbringing and love for surfing influenced his decision to join the Navy and pursue a career in special operations, leading him to unique opportunities and adventures within the military community
The speaker's upbringing and love for surfing played a significant role in his decision to join the Navy and pursue a career in special operations. Growing up with an older and younger brother, he was influenced by their experiences in the military and was drawn to the water-based roles offered by the SEAL teams. After graduating high school, he worked various jobs but was eventually recruited by the Navy and sent to Operation Splash, an A school in Virginia Beach. There, he was exposed to the special operations community and eventually put in a package to attend SWIC (Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewman) school. Throughout his military career, his experiences growing up and his love for surfing continued to influence him, leading him to unique opportunities and adventures.
SWCC History: From unofficial assignment to respected career: The SWCC program's history shows its evolution from informal boat team assignments in the Vietnam War to a recognized and essential career path in the Navy, with a transformative 10-12 week training program called Swing School.
The role of Special Warfare Combatant Crewmen (SWCC) in the Navy began unofficially in the Vietnam War and went back even further to World War II. Initially, it wasn't an official rating, and crewmen were just assigned to boat teams for a few years. However, the Navy later recognized the importance of having skilled boat drivers and turned it into a career path. The SWCC training, known as Swing School, was around 10-12 weeks long, and graduates were sent to different locations based on the Navy's needs. New crew members started as navigators, learning various boat systems and helping with maintenance. Over time, they progressed to become engineers and eventually boat drivers. The experience was transformative for many, moving them from office jobs to hands-on roles on boats. The first deployment for many SWCCs was in the late 90s, with training in Guam and exercises in the Pacific region. Surfing was also a part of the experience for those stationed in Guam. Overall, the SWCC program evolved from an unofficial assignment to a respected and essential career in the Navy.
Military experiences and impactful events: The speaker's military career was marked by various experiences, including working with different teams, responding to unexpected events like the USS Cole bombing and 9/11 attacks, and transitioning to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team due to the start of the Iraq War.
During the speaker's military career, they had various experiences with different teams and deployments, including working with Tony, responding to the USS Cole bombing, and eventually transitioning to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team. The speaker missed encountering their friend during several timeframes, such as when the speaker was on the East Coast while their friend was in Bahrain. They also mentioned doing VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) on patrol crafts and ship takedowns. The speaker was a driver during some deployments and did ship security after the USS Cole bombing. The unexpected events, like the USS Cole bombing and the 9/11 attacks, significantly impacted their military experience. The speaker also mentioned hearing about EOD during boot camp and eventually transitioning to the EOD team due to the closing of Roosevelt Roads and the start of the Iraq War.
Military career progression: Military superiors can recognize potential and encourage personnel to explore new opportunities, even if it means breaking traditional policies. Career progression can be driven by a desire to make a difference and be on the ground in a conflict zone.
The speaker's decision to leave his unit and pursue a career in Explosive Ordinance or EOD was supported by his superior, who recognized his potential and encouraged him to explore different opportunities. The speaker was feeling fulfilled in his role but wanted to be more marketable and make a difference in the ongoing war. Despite the traditional requirement for EOD to only accept E6s, the military started to change its policy and welcome younger, less experienced personnel due to the sustained conflict in the Middle East. The speaker's motivation was driven by his desire to be on the ground in the war and make a difference, rather than the inspiration from movies or a specific goal. The support and encouragement from his superior played a significant role in his career progression.
Navy EOD Training: Navy EOD training is rigorous, lasting 11 months with intense academic scrutiny and physical demands, focusing on explosives and ordnance disposal
Navy EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) training is rigorous and extensive, with a significant weeding-out process during the first phase. This phase, known as dive school, lasts for about 10 weeks and covers both scuba diving and the use of deep water, low magnetic signature diving systems. The academic scrutiny during the subsequent 10-month EOD school is also intense, focusing on sensitive material that cannot be studied at home. The training covers a wide range of explosives and ordnance, with practical tests and assessments throughout. Demolition week involves handling and disposing of charges, but this is only a part of the overall training experience. The process of becoming an EOD specialist requires dedication, physical fitness, and academic excellence.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team: Having EOD experts on a team enhances safety and capabilities. They bring unique focus and expertise, saving the team from potential danger.
Having specialized experts like Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians on a team significantly enhances the team's capabilities and safety. The speaker, a former Navy EOD technician, shares his experience of joining SEAL Team 3 after being assigned to an NSW platoon due to his prior six-year service. He emphasizes that EOD technicians bring a unique focus and expertise to the team that general team members may not have. The speaker also recalls how his EOD team members saved the day by finding IEDs that could have endangered the team. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of earning the trust of team members and having good performance to be effective in the EOD role. Despite not having prior IAD experience, the speaker was able to learn and excel in the role through training and experience.
Military team trust: Earning team trust is vital for military success, achieved through shared experiences and personal connections, while team bonding activities and valuable training contribute to effective team dynamics.
Building trust with team members is a crucial aspect of effective military training and deployment. The speaker emphasized the importance of earning the trust of his team in various situations, from personal security detail to urban combat training. He also highlighted the value of team bonding experiences, such as Fort Knox's live fire training and weekend activities, which helped the team mesh and learn from each other. The speaker also mentioned the importance of confidence, charisma, and quick wit in team dynamics, as well as the value of valuable training and team building during seemingly frivolous trips. Despite the occasional challenges, the speaker looked back on these experiences fondly and saw them as essential parts of his military career.
Urban warfare challenges for EOD teams: Despite initial reservations and uncertain conditions, EOD teams can adapt and effectively carry out their mission in urban warfare environments through tight-knit leadership, role flexibility, and effective training.
Despite initial reservations about a perceived less action-oriented deployment, the speaker and his team were fully committed to their mission and adapted to the challenges they faced in Ramadi, which included a high IED threat and urban warfare conditions. The team's tight-knit and contagious leadership, as well as the speaker's ability to switch between EOD specialist and assaultor roles, enabled them to stay focused on their mission to keep the team safe. The speaker also recalls the unexpected nature of the deployment, with late notice and minimal information available before arrival. Despite the uncertainty and potential danger, the team remained professional and determined, with the commodore's reassurance that most likely no one would engage in combat providing a sense of calm amidst the chaos. From an EOD perspective, the urban environment presented unique challenges, but the team's training and adaptability allowed them to effectively carry out their mission.
Asymmetrical warfare adaptations: Soldiers in Iraq had to adapt quickly to changing threats and operating conditions, form smaller teams, be constantly vigilant for IEDs and other threats, use psychological warfare tactics, and respond and adapt to the enemy's tactics.
During their deployment in Iraq, the soldiers had to adapt quickly to changing threats and operating conditions. They were prepared to function as a task unit but ended up forming smaller teams to partner with Iraqi units. The soldiers had to be constantly vigilant for IEDs and other threats, and they used psychological warfare tactics like giving extensive EOD briefs to scare and prepare their comrades. The nature of asymmetrical warfare required them to respond and adapt to the enemy's tactics, and they had to be defensive and reactive instead of offensive. Despite the dangers, they managed to avoid major incidents through luck and quick thinking. Overall, the soldiers' experience was a game of chess where they had to anticipate the enemy's moves and counter them with their own.
Military collaboration in Iraq: Effective collaboration between EOD teams and conventional forces during the Iraq War was crucial for neutralizing IEDs and ensuring the safety of all forces, requiring flexibility and adaptability to the enemy's tactics.
Effective collaboration between different military units was crucial during the war in Iraq. EOD teams played a vital role in identifying and neutralizing IEDs, allowing other forces to move safely. The relationships built between different units were significant, as they shifted the dynamic from conventional forces supporting EOD to EOD teams actively supporting conventional forces. These collaborations were not only beneficial for that region but also for the war as a whole. Additionally, the unpredictability of the enemy's tactics required flexibility and adaptability, with units like the Bruiser putting sniper teams in place to target IED emplacers. The success of these joint operations relied heavily on the dedication and bravery of all involved.
Overwatch communication, trust: Effective Overwatch communication and trust between team members are essential for safety and success in high-pressure situations. Awareness of each other's positions, clearance procedures, and trust in relationships enable more coordinated efforts and efficient management of logistics and resources.
Effective communication and trust between team members are crucial in high-pressure situations. The speaker shared an experience from his military service where failing to establish mutual supporting Overwatch positions led to potential danger. He emphasized the importance of being aware of each other's exits and clearance procedures to avoid being ambushed. Additionally, the speaker highlighted the importance of trust and relationships in joint operations, as they enable more effective and coordinated efforts. The speaker's observation of the fast-paced nature of big operations also underscores the importance of trust and effective communication in managing logistics and resources.
Emotional impact of war: War's unpredictability and emotional toll can be overwhelming, but camaraderie and mutual support among unit members help coping and continuation of mission
War is unpredictable and the experience of it can leave deep emotional wounds that last long after the fighting has ended. Despite the training and preparation, the fear and reality of casualties can be overwhelming. However, the support and camaraderie among the unit members helped them to cope and continue their mission. The understanding that everyone was experiencing similar emotions and the need to move forward together provided a common ground and strength to carry on. The unexpected reality of war and its impact was a stark reminder of its inherent dangers and the sacrifices made by those who serve.
Getting back to work: In the face of loss and adversity, it's important to take a breather to grieve, but ultimately, getting back to work and focusing on personal growth is crucial for healing and moving forward.
Resilience and getting back to work are crucial in dealing with loss and adversity. This lesson was instilled in the speaker by his father when he fell off his bike as a child, and it was reinforced during his military service. The speaker emphasized that Mark, a fallen comrade, would have wanted them to continue their work and honor his memory. The army and Marine Corps units that experienced heavy losses also followed this principle and continued their missions. It's important to take a breather and grieve, but ultimately, getting back to work and focusing on personal growth is essential for healing and moving forward.
Personal growth, commitment: Encouraging personal growth and development is essential in both personal and professional contexts. Personal growth leads to commitment and can result in a fulfilling life partnership. Preparation and being ready for unexpected situations are also crucial.
During a conversation, the speaker realized he wanted to spend the rest of his life with his partner and started considering proposing to her. This conversation was a turning point for him, and he emphasized the importance of marrying someone who is on an upward trajectory in life. Later, when the speaker's friend expressed his desire to leave their current role, the speaker encouraged him to take on a leadership position instead. This theme of encouraging personal growth and development emerged throughout the conversation. The speaker also shared his experience of passing on valuable information to new teams and emphasized the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations, such as injuries or losses. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of personal growth, preparation, and commitment in both personal and professional contexts.
Counterinsurgency mission success: Effective leadership and teamwork overcame cultural differences and unfamiliarity, leading to a successful counterinsurgency mission in Iraq.
Effective leadership and teamwork were crucial in the success of a counterinsurgency mission in Soder City, Iraq. The team, consisting of members from various platoons and coasts, had to adapt and overcome differences to work together effectively. Despite challenges such as cultural differences and unfamiliarity with each other, they managed to build trust and cohesion, resulting in a successful mission. The team's experience, expertise, and strong leadership allowed them to make a significant impact in a complex and uncertain situation. The mission's success demonstrated the importance of a well-coordinated and cohesive team in achieving military objectives.
SEAL training programs: Passionate speaker's experience with free fall jumping led to advanced training programs for Navy SEAL platoons, improving their proficiency and capability despite challenges of short-term memory loss and fatigue.
The speaker's experience with free fall jumping led him to facilitate advanced training programs for Navy SEAL platoons, improving their proficiency and capability. Despite the challenges of short-term memory loss and fatigue, he found fulfillment in this role, which felt like being back on a platoon. Eventually, he had the opportunity to deploy to Afghanistan as an E-5 chief, working alongside friends and colleagues from his previous assignments. Throughout his career, the speaker's passion for explosive ordnance disposal and his dedication to training and improving the skills of others drove his success.
Adaptability in dangerous situations: Even in dangerous situations, adaptability and experience can lead to new opportunities. Past experiences and seniority can open doors to new roles, but it's important to value and leverage your skills and network to find fulfillment in the transition.
Even in unexpected and dangerous situations, adaptability and experience can lead to new opportunities. In the discussion, a veteran shares an experience where he found himself in a situation involving an IED during a patrol in Afghanistan. Despite not being an EOD specialist, he took the initiative to assess and clear the area, leading to the discovery of valuable information about the IED's design. Later, due to his past experience and seniority, he was offered a chance to join an EOD platoon but was instead reassigned to a different team. Feeling undervalued, he decided to retire and pursue a new career in teaching advanced parachute flight techniques to military units. Through this transition, he emphasized the importance of having a supportive network, such as jiu-jitsu friends and teammates, in helping him adjust to a new environment and lifestyle. Overall, the veteran's story highlights the importance of staying adaptable, leveraging past experiences, and maintaining a strong support system during times of change.
Military career transition: Transitioning from military service can be challenging, but taking responsibility for personal growth and finding a new purpose can lead to fulfillment.
Even after a successful military career, the intervietee faced personal challenges and had to find a new purpose in life. He transitioned from being a crash test dummy for parachute manufacturing to working at the manufacturer itself. However, he went through a rough patch in his marriage, which led to a painful separation. He felt lost and unfulfilled, but eventually found solace in continuing his service by helping create safe and effective equipment for military units. This experience taught him the importance of reflection and taking responsibility for one's actions, even during difficult times.
Emotional suppression: Emotional suppression can lead to relationship breakdowns and personal growth hindrance. Self-compassion, forgiveness, communication, and vulnerability are crucial for maintaining healthy relationships and personal growth.
Holding emotions in can lead to a breakdown in relationships and personal growth. The speaker shares a personal story of keeping feelings hidden, leading to a sudden separation from his partner. He later realized the importance of self-compassion and forgiveness, and reconnected with her after making amends. The act of writing was also a therapeutic outlet for him, helping him process emotions and gain perspective. The speaker emphasizes that communication and vulnerability are essential for maintaining healthy relationships and personal growth.
Writing as self-therapy: Writing can serve as a powerful form of self-therapy and self-expression, providing a judgment-free space to process emotions and thoughts, anywhere and anytime.
Writing can serve as a powerful form of self-therapy and self-expression. The speaker shares how a coach recommended the practice to him, and since then, he has found it to be a valuable tool for processing emotions and thoughts without judgment or expectations. Whether it's through pen and paper or on a phone, writing can be done anywhere and at any time. The speaker also mentions how writing has helped him deal with challenges and difficult situations, such as getting attacked by a shark or planning a seven continents in seven days expedition. By focusing on the act of writing itself rather than the end product, one can tap into their feelings and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
Skydiving team success: Resourcefulness and teamwork led a skydiving team with few jumps to charter a plane, jump in various continents, and raise money for charity, emphasizing the importance of finding a purpose outside of oneself for personal growth.
The success of the skydiving team was not based on their jumping skills, but rather their resourcefulness and ability to work together to make things happen. The team, which included individuals with fewer than 200 jumps, managed to charter a plane from Miami to Barcelona, jump in various continents, and raise a significant amount of money for a charity. The experience was mission-oriented and provided the team members with a sense of purpose, leading many of them to find success in serving others after their service in the military. The journey was a reminder that finding a purpose outside of oneself can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
Baseball college, mutual acquaintances, EOD work: The speaker shared stories about attending a baseball college with a strong pitching history, interacting with a mutual acquaintance known as 'Mr. Wonderful', and emphasized the importance of rigorous training and safety in Explosive Ordnance Disposal work
The speaker attended a baseball college with a notable history of producing professional pitchers. The town is simple but loved by students, and while it can be hot and mosquito-ridden, it's not unbearable. The speaker shared a story about trying to get a "Skydive Mars" t-shirt from a friend, and they discussed various topics including Greg Andrews, a mutual acquaintance known as "Mr. Wonderful." The conversation also touched on Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) work, with the speaker emphasizing the importance of training and safety. A specific EOD anecdote involved the speaker disabling a car with explosives, surprising those present. The conversation also touched on the importance of understanding military ranks and procedures, such as taking a knee when an EOD technician is working.
Military experiences: Military experiences provide valuable insights and lessons for others, emphasizing the importance of community and appreciation for current life.
Experiences and stories from the past, especially those related to military service, hold significant value and can provide valuable insights and lessons for others. Nick Kush, a Navy EOD veteran, shared his experiences and the impact of these experiences on his life during a conversation. He emphasized the importance of community and the appreciation for what he's doing in his life now. The discussion also touched upon various TV shows, such as MacGyver and Magnum PI, and how they influenced and inspired individuals in different ways. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of sharing stories and experiences to enrich and educate others.
Jocko's products and services: Jocko and his team offer a range of health, fitness, and leadership products and services including Jocko Fuel, Jockofield.com, OriginUSA.com, Jockostore.com, and a subscription service called Shirt Locker. They also sponsor events and emphasize the importance of education.
Jocko and his team are offering various products and services related to health, fitness, and leadership. These include Jocko Fuel for nutrition, Jockofield.com for rewards and discounts, OriginUSA.com for American-made gear, and Jockostore.com for merchandise. They also sponsor events like the Craig Jones Invitational for Jiu Jitsu. Additionally, they have a subscription service called Shirt Locker for new shirt designs every month. Jocko emphasizes the importance of learning and education, and encourages people to check out their websites for the best quality products and services.
Building relationships, teams: Attending events, supporting charities, and building strong bonds with teammates can help individuals overcome challenges and struggles in life.
Building strong relationships and teams can help individuals overcome challenges and struggles in life. This was emphasized through various discussions about events, charities, and personal experiences. For instance, attending events like the Echelon Front Women's Assembly and Dallas Muster can provide valuable opportunities for learning and networking. Additionally, supporting charities like America's Mighty Warriors, Heroes and Horses, and Beyond the Brotherhood can make a significant impact on the lives of service members and their families. Furthermore, developing strong bonds with teammates and lifting them up during difficult times can make all the difference in overcoming obstacles. So, whether it's through attending events, supporting charities, or building strong relationships, remember that you're not alone in your challenges and that working together can help make life's struggles more manageable and enjoyable.