DiscoverMike Drop
Mike Drop
Claim Ownership

Mike Drop

Author: Mike Ritland

Subscribed: 8,646Played: 375,776
Share

Description

Mike Drop, hosted by former Navy SEAL and bestselling author Mike Ritland, is a no-holds-barred platform that dives deep into the stories and experiences of extraordinary individuals. Known for his candid and unfiltered approach, Mike interviews guests ranging from special operations veterans and elite athletes to renowned authors and thought leaders, offering listeners a exclusive glimpse into the human side of those who have excelled in their fields. Whether it's discussing the intense challenges of combat or the resilience required to overcome personal adversity, Mike Drop provides a space where real conversations happen.

284 Episodes
Reverse
Welcome to Part 3 of Episode 257 of the Mike Drop Podcast, where host Mike Ritland dives deeper into the unfiltered, hard-hitting world of truth and resilience with James McGibney, the fearless founder of Bullyville.com. In this explosive finale, James and Mike unpack the murky realities of cybercrime, from the chilling tactics of North Korean hackers to the dangers of data breaches and ransomware that can hijack your life. They tackle everything from Epstein’s elusive list and government corruption to practical tips for securing your digital castle against sextortion, catfishing, and for-hire stalkers. With candid reflections on military life, purpose, and the state of the nation, this episode blends gritty insights, actionable advice, and a dose of humor. Tune in on YouTube, Spotify, or your go-to podcast platform for a raw, eye-opening ride that’ll leave you ready to fight back against the digital chaos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to Part 2 of Episode 257 of the Mike Drop Podcast, where host Mike Ritland brings his no-nonsense, battle-hardened perspective to raw conversations with warriors, survivors, and truth-tellers. This time, Mike sits down with James McGibney, the unapologetic founder of Bullyville.com, who’s spent over a decade hunting down online predators—from revenge porn kingpins like Hunter Moore to cyberstalkers hiding behind sock puppet accounts. In this gripping episode, you’ll hear jaw-dropping stories from McGibney’s fight to shut down the internet’s darkest corners, practical advice for parents on keeping kids safe in a digital jungle, and unfiltered takes on everything from swatting and AI deepfakes to cancel culture and Epstein conspiracies. Packed with hard-earned wisdom, a touch of humor, and a nod to Beam’s Dream Powder for warrior-level sleep, this is a masterclass in resilience and fighting back against the chaos of the online world. Stay tuned for Part 3. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another unfiltered, no-holds-barred episode of the Mike Drop Podcast—where relevancy is irrelevant, and we dive headfirst into the raw stories of warriors, survivors, and straight-up legends. In the shadowy underbelly of the early internet, one man turned the tables on a digital predator like no one else could. Dr. James McGibney, a former U.S. Marine and founder of ⁠Bullyville.com⁠, orchestrated the downfall of Hunter Moore—the infamous "revenge porn king" behind ⁠IsAnyoneUp.com⁠, the site's explosive takedown chronicled in Netflix's gripping documentary The Most Hated Man on the Internet. What started as a personal vow to infiltrate Moore's world, befriend him, and dismantle his empire from the inside became a masterclass in digital vigilantism, proving that sometimes, to beat a bully, you have to out-bully them. But McGibney's story isn't just about cyber sleuthing; it's forged in the fires of unimaginable hardship. Born in the South Bronx, he endured a childhood ripped apart by domestic violence, foster care horrors—including abuse that left scars deeper than code—and a burning quest for retribution that shaped his unyielding drive. From ripping out his own braces in a defiant act of rebellion to channeling that rage into protecting the vulnerable, McGibney's path reveals how personal demons fuel world-changing justice. Buckle up for this mike drop episode, where McGibney drops raw truths on everything from his Marine days and cyber security expertise to the meticulous, "psychotic" beauty of intelligent revenge. It's a riveting blend of heartbreak, heroism, and hard-won wisdom that reminds us: in a world of anonymous cowards, one voice—amplified by grit—can shatter empires. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Part 3 of Episode 256 of the Mike Drop Podcast, hosted by Mike Ritland, Navy SEAL veteran Kevin Kent continues his unfiltered recounting of high-stakes operations and his unexpected transition into Hollywood. This segment dives into the gritty details of Iraq deployments, from textbook raids gone awry—like hitting the wrong house marked by a faulty blue chem light—to intense firefights in Abu Bali, where Kevin unloads 400 rounds from a 46 gun in a chaotic ambush. He shares vivid stories of hauling bodies wrapped in carpets, mistakenly crossing into Syria, and a surreal encounter with Iranian soldiers on a river op in Basra. The episode also explores Kevin’s post-military career, sparked by his twins’ acting gigs, leading to technical advising on major films like Transformers and The Last Ship under mentor Harry Humphries. From navigating Hollywood’s feast-or-famine nature to launching the Liberty Risk podcast with fellow veterans, Kevin’s journey highlights the camaraderie, chaos, and adaptability of a SEAL turned storyteller. Perfect for fans of raw military tales and behind-the-scenes Hollywood insights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to Part 2 of Episode 256 on the Mike Drop Podcast, hosted by Mike Ritland, where we dive deep into the unfiltered world of elite military operators. In this gripping continuation, special guest Kevin Kent, a seasoned Navy SEAL veteran with a decade-plus of service in SEAL Team 5, opens up about his journey from BUD/S graduation in 2000 to nine deployments spanning pre- and post-9/11 eras. Listeners will get an raw, insider look at the chaotic camaraderie of checking into the notorious "Hollywood" Team 5, navigating bureaucratic nightmares like unwanted assignments to Yuma and penalty box stints, and the high-stakes evolution of combat ops—from peacetime exercises turning into real-world Gulf boardings to the Wild West intensity of early Iraq invasions. Expect hilarious hazing stories, heart-pounding tales of seizing hydroelectric dams under fire, eerie encounters with radiation silos, and candid reflections on promotions, injuries, and the shifting tides of warfare that shaped a generation of SEALs. If you're into authentic military history, operator mindset, and no-BS storytelling, this episode delivers the goods—perfect for veterans, history buffs, and anyone fascinated by the SEAL ethos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get ready for an explosive episode of the Mike Drop podcast, where we dive into the gritty, unfiltered life of Chief Special Warfare Operator Kevin Kent. With over two decades in the SEAL teams, Kevin’s story is a rollercoaster of high-stakes missions, near-death experiences, and lessons learned the hard way. From dodging tracers in the chaotic streets of Iraq during the 2003 deployment to navigating the wild aftermath of liberty incidents, Kevin’s journey is a raw testament to the resilience and grit it takes to thrive in the world’s most elite fighting force. His tales of camaraderie, chaos, and personal growth will pull you in and keep you on the edge of your seat. This episode isn’t just about war stories—it’s about the man behind the trident. Kevin opens up about his roots as an Army brat, growing up in Tennessee with a disciplined EOD father who shaped his path to the SEALs. He shares the pivotal moments that drove him to push past doubt and physical limits, from a regret-fueled high school football exit to grueling factory jobs that prepped him for BUD/S. With humor and candor, Kevin reflects on the mishaps—like a bar brawl in Albuquerque that nearly derailed his career—and the triumphs that defined his 20-year tenure. Whether it’s serving high-risk warrants in New Mexico or mentoring actors in Hollywood, his multifaceted life as a SEAL, comedian, stuntman, and podcast co-host shines through. Buckle up as we explore the chaos, courage, and clarity of Kevin Kent’s remarkable journey. From the battlefield to the big screen, he’s lived a life most can only imagine, and he’s here to share the unvarnished truth. Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline of combat, the brotherhood of the teams, or the unexpected turns of a SEAL’s career, this episode delivers it all with the raw intensity you expect from Mike Drop. Don’t miss this deep dive into a warrior’s world, where every story is a lesson, and every lesson is hard-earned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Part 3 of the Mike Drop Podcast with former DEA agent Wes Tabor, the stakes get higher as Wes recounts his perilous assignment in Venezuela, a narco-terrorist haven under Hugo Chavez’s regime. From dodging Cuban and Venezuelan intelligence to operating solo in a hostile environment, Wes shares heart-pounding stories of undercover operations, evading assassination attempts, and targeting high-value cartel members in a lawless "Wild West" of drug trafficking. He also reflects on the personal toll of his 35-year career, the betrayal of corrupt leadership, and the relentless drive that fueled his fight against global crime. This episode is a raw, unfiltered dive into the sacrifices and adrenaline of a DEA agent’s life on the edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Part 2 of the gripping Mike Drop Podcast featuring Wes Tabor, a former DEA agent, listeners are taken deeper into the intense world of drug enforcement and high-stakes operations. Wes shares riveting stories from his recovery after a life-altering accident, his relentless pursuit of justice against the odds, and his experiences tackling major cases involving the Sinaloa Cartel and Hezbollah. From confronting criminals in the field to navigating the challenges of corruption within law enforcement, this episode dives into the raw realities of DEA work, including undercover operations, massive cash seizures, and the evolving threat of cryptocurrency in narco-terrorism. Expect unfiltered accounts of danger, sacrifice, and the moral fortitude that defined Wes’s career. Tune in for an unflinching look at the front lines of the war on drugs! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get ready for an unflinching dive into the world of drug enforcement on this episode of the Mike Ritland Podcast, featuring Wes Tabor—a 35-year law enforcement veteran who spent over two decades with the DEA, operating across the United States, Central America, and South America. With stints embedded alongside the CIA and authorship credits for his eye-opening book Infiltrate America (plus the upcoming Beyond Blurry Lines set for next summer), Wes doesn't hold back as he recounts the brutal realities of his career. Mike and Wes dismantle pop culture myths about DEA agents—no, it's not all black fatigues and window-storming raids. Instead, Wes paints a picture of tedious investigations that turn spy-like overseas, while admitting the agency often fails at public messaging, leaving misconceptions about their focus (hint: they weren't chasing small-time weed dealers, but multi-ton shipments of cocaine and heroin from cartels in Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico). He pulls no punches on DEA leadership, calling out bureaucratic inertia, "latte commandos," and a culture that stifles real change, drawing parallels to issues plaguing the FBI, ATF, and even the military. Tune in for a masterclass in resilience from a guy who's seen it all—and isn't afraid to call it like it is. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Episode 254, Part 3 of the Mike Drop podcast, host Mike Ritland continues his conversation with former Green Beret Mark Gianconia, delving into the complex motivations behind the Iraq War and Mark’s post-combat transition. The episode opens with a discussion on the murky intelligence surrounding weapons of mass destruction and the decision to invade Iraq, exploring whether it was a justified response to perceived threats or influenced by ulterior motives. Mark reflects on the chaotic post-invasion landscape, including his role in devastating airstrikes against the Iraqi military, navigating minefields, and managing volatile tribal factions in Tuz. He shares the emotional toll of combat, including feelings of guilt and fear, which led to his decision to leave special operations. Mark’s career pivots dramatically as he becomes an instructor for the 18 Fox intelligence course, mastering geospatial intelligence and coding, which propels him into a tech career. He also discusses his book, One Green Beret, a cathartic effort to process his experiences, and his current role in geospatial technology, emphasizing AI as a tool rather than a threat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this gripping second part of Episode 254 of the Mike Drop podcast, host Mike Ritland sits down with former Green Beret Mark Gianconia to explore his extraordinary career in special operations. Unlike many post-9/11 operators, Mark’s journey began in Kosovo, working alongside Russian forces in a vastly different operational landscape. Returning just before the 9/11 attacks, Mark shares his visceral reaction to the tragedy and how it propelled his unit into action. This episode takes you deep into his covert missions in Iraq, including the daring Advanced Force Operations (AFO) infil via rental cars from Turkey and the intense Operation Viking Hammer against terrorist strongholds like Ansar al-Islam. Expect raw, firsthand accounts of unconventional warfare, coordination with Kurdish allies, and the chaos of combat in the early days of the Iraq War. From dodging mortar fire to orchestrating airstrikes, Mark’s stories offer a vivid window into the high-stakes world of special forces during a pivotal moment in history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dive into this epic conversation on the Mike Drop Podcast with Green Beret legend Mark Giaconia. A 20-year Army veteran who traded infantry boots for Special Forces grit, Mark opens up about his raw reaction to 9/11—burning with jealousy as Fifth Group charged into Afghanistan, only to carve his own pinnacle in Iraq's brutal ops. But before the GWOT glory, he takes us back to the forgotten chaos of Bosnia in the late '90s, where peacekeeping turned into high-stakes intel gathering: embedding in remote villages, renting houses amid fresh war scars, and dodging tense standoffs with Serbian cops who grabbed their weapons at the sight of an American. From concealed pistols and civilian rides to wild encounters—like spotting a Beirut bombing fugitive in a roadside eatery or monitoring Russian convoys on the brink of World War III—Mark's stories pulse with the raw edge of undercover life in a powder keg. We geek out on metal shredding (check Patreon for the deep dive), philosophy from Socrates to Nietzsche, and his time-travel wish to homestead in colonial Connecticut. Whether it's surviving Ranger School's 200+ day grind, losing 40 pounds in the suck, or bonding with locals over slivovitz amid genocide echoes, this episode hooks you with unfiltered warrior wisdom, historical twists, and the unexamined life's brutal truths. Don't miss Mark's insights on human nature, founding principles, and why the Balkans' hospitality hides a world of shadows—perfect fuel for any Mike Drop fan craving real talk from the front lines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In the gripping final installment of the Mike Drop Podcast with Chuck Hayes, a 40-year Navy SEAL veteran, we dive into the profound intersections of military discipline, spiritual awakening, and post-service purpose. Chuck reflects on the non-democratic nature of military life, the weight of command, and the responsibility to lead with trust and empathy. He shares a transformative near-death experience induced during a medical training course, revealing a cosmic perspective on life, death, and existence itself. From encounters with divine laughter to haunting dreams and past-life regressions, Chuck unravels his journey through the psychedelic medicine, shamanic visions, and hypnotherapy—that reshaped his understanding of reality, faith, and human suffering. Now, through his work with Soft Whisper, Chuck channels these experiences to help veterans and civilians alike heal from trauma, find purpose, and navigate the complexities of the human soul. This episode is a raw, mind-bending exploration of leadership, spirituality, and the eternal quest for meaning. SleepMe Visit www.sleep.me/MIKEDROP to get 20% off your Chilipad with code MIKEDROP, one word. That’s free shipping, free returns, and a 30-night sleep trial to test it for yourself. Again — that’s https://sleep.me/MIKEDROP. NHTSA Beam Here’s the deal: Beam is giving my listeners the ultimate patriot discount of UP TO 40% off. Try their best‑selling Dream Powder and get UP TO 40% off for a limited time. Go to https://shopbeam.com/products/dream-powder-4?variant=41387075567671&selling_plan=1794441271&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sponsorship&utm_campaign=mikedrop&code=applied15&discount=MIKEDROP and use code MIKEDROP at checkout. TEAM DOG FOOD, TREATS & SUPPLEMENTS Be Your Dog’s Hero: Veteran-owned by a former Navy SEAL and Special Operations K9 Trainer, Team Dog provides a complete diet of science-backed premium dog food, treats, and supplements to optimize your dog’s health, forged from rigorous standards and real-world expertise. https://www.teamdog.shop TEAM DOG ONLINE TRAINING Mike Ritland – a former Navy SEAL & Special Operations K9 trainer – shares his simple and effective dog training program to build trust and control with your dog. Based on Mike’s bestselling book “Team Dog, Train the Navy SEAL Way”, join tens of thousands of families that successfully trained their way to a better dog. https://www.teamdog.pet SHOP ALL THE MIKE RITLAND BRANDS Get all your Mike Ritland branded gear - Mike Drop | Trikos | Team Dog https://shop.mikeritland.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome back to Part 2 of the Mike Drop Podcast featuring Chuck Hayes, a 40-year Navy SEAL veteran whose career spanned from enlisted ranks to captain. In this episode, Chuck dives deep into the pivotal moments that shaped his post-9/11 journey, including the tragic loss of a teammate during training, the profound impact of September 11th on his career, revamping SEAL training for the Afghanistan theater, intense deployments as a task unit commander, kinetic operations against Taliban leaders, and candid reflections on the purpose, sacrifices, and outcomes of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Listeners will find raw stories of leadership under fire, hard lessons from combat, geopolitical insights, and thoughtful critiques on military strategy, national policy, and the human cost of endless conflict—delivering inspiration, introspection, and unfiltered truth from a warrior's perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Buckle up for an unfiltered, heart-pounding episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, hosted by the fearless Mike Ritland, as he sits down with Navy SEAL icon Chuck Hayes. From a fateful bus ride to Orlando in September 1982, where Hayes first glimpsed the world of elite warriors, to the soul-shattering chaos of Bloody Sunday, this episode rips open the raw reality of a SEAL’s life. Hayes vividly recounts his evolution from a wide-eyed rookie to a battle-scarred leader, commanding platoons that carried the weight of the Global War on Terror through relentless, ferocious firefights. Hear the chilling story of loading bullets one-by-one, each click a defiance against near-certain death, and the unbreakable resolve that drove his team back into the fray. With China’s military might looming, Hayes tackles the burning question: Can America’s Special Operations forces dominate in a high-stakes showdown? Packed with jaw-dropping revelations and raw emotion, this episode will grip you from start to finish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In the gripping second part of this episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, guest John Nores dives deeper into the escalating issues at the U.S. borders, focusing on the alarming rise of Chinese nationals crossing illegally and their potential ties to organized crime and terrorism. The discussion uncovers the calculated destruction of identification documents by these operatives, making it nearly impossible to trace their identities, and explores the sophisticated transportation networks facilitating their entry. We examine the collusion between Chinese organized crime and Mexican cartels, highlighting their roles in fentanyl production, human trafficking, and the operation of illegal grow sites. The conversation also addresses the vulnerabilities of the northern border, particularly in Montana, where limited resources and vast terrain create opportunities for smuggling and other illicit activities. The episode reflects on the positive shifts under the new administration, with improved communication between federal agencies and law enforcement, and a renewed focus on combating cartels. We also explore the challenges faced during California's sanctuary state policies under Governor Newsom, which restricted information sharing and media outreach about cartel activities. The discussion touches on the role of cryptocurrency in potential money laundering schemes and its geopolitical implications, as well as the need for a more streamlined immigration process that distinguishes between non-criminal immigrants and dangerous offenders. Beyond the serious topics, the episode lightens up with stories of community engagement, including John Nores' involvement in a Montana-based rock band, Area 56, which has provided a joyful outlet amidst the intensity of his work. From adapting military tactics for law enforcement to tracking fugitives like a former Army Ranger in rural areas, this episode is packed with insights into the evolving challenges of border security, environmental protection, and public safety. Join us for a candid and unifying conversation that bridges critical issues with moments of hope and resilience on the Mike Drop Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, we confront a chilling reality: unvetted individuals crossing the U.S. border, instructed to destroy their documentation, leaving us clueless about who they are. Is this a calculated move? You bet it is. From fentanyl and meth labs to human and child sex trafficking, the collusion between Chinese organized crime and Mexican cartels is fueling a crisis that’s spiraling out of control. Are these just drug operations, or is there a more sinister, operative component—perhaps tied to terrorism? John’s seen it firsthand, from the grow houses poisoning our lands to the narco takeover of rural communities like Siskiyou County. We’ll also touch on John’s journey, from his faith-driven resilience to surviving over 20 life-threatening encounters in cartel grow operations. Plus, we’ll explore the Second Amendment, the pitfalls of restrictive gun laws, and why self-reliance is more critical than ever in today’s volatile world. Buckle up for a raw, unfiltered conversation that pulls no punches. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s welcome back John Nores to Mike Drop Podcast! ---------- SleepMe Visit www.sleep.me/MIKEDROP to get 20% off your Chilipad with code MIKEDROP, one word. That’s free shipping, free returns, and a 30-night sleep trial to test it for yourself. Again — that’s https://sleep.me/MIKEDROP. IDEO U Class starts soon, so enroll today! For a limited time, IDEO U is offering my listeners %15 OFF SITEWIDE! Go to https://www.ideou.com/mikedrop. Fitbod Join Fitbod today to get your personalized workout plan. Get 25% off your subscription or try the app FREE for seven days at https://fitbod.me/MIKEDROP/ TEAM DOG FOOD, TREATS & SUPPLEMENTS Be Your Dog’s Hero: Veteran-owned by a former Navy SEAL and Special Operations K9 Trainer, Team Dog provides a complete diet of science-backed premium dog food, treats, and supplements to optimize your dog’s health, forged from rigorous standards and real-world expertise. https://www.teamdog.shop TEAM DOG ONLINE TRAINING Mike Ritland – a former Navy SEAL & Special Operations K9 trainer – shares his simple and effective dog training program to build trust and control with your dog. Based on Mike’s bestselling book “Team Dog, Train the Navy SEAL Way”, join tens of thousands of families that successfully trained their way to a better dog. https://www.teamdog.pet SHOP ALL THE MIKE RITLAND BRANDS Get all your Mike Ritland branded gear - Mike Drop | Trikos | Team Dog https://shop.mikeritland.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In the powerful and emotional conclusion of Episode 251 of the Mike Drop Podcast, host Mike Ritland sits down with former Navy SEAL John Collins for a raw and unfiltered exploration of his time in the SEAL Teams’ K9 program. This episode dives deep into John’s experiences with two unforgettable military working dogs, Tyson and Duke, whose alpha personalities and unrelenting drive left lasting scars—both physical and emotional. John recounts the intense challenges of training these formidable canines, including a chaotic encounter with Tyson that tested his resilience as a handler. The conversation takes a somber turn as John shares the heartbreaking story of Tyson’s death in a 2017 firefight in Iraq, a loss that hit hard and set the stage for a frustrating deployment experience marked by resistance and betrayal from within his own ranks. From navigating Navy politics and leadership failures to his eventual decision to leave the SEAL Teams after nearly 12 years, John reflects on the toll of service and the struggle to find purpose in civilian life. With candid insights into military culture, the evolving role of drones in warfare, and advice for the next generation of SEALs, this episode is a gripping testament to the bonds forged with K9 partners and the challenges of transitioning from warrior to civilian. Don’t miss this unforgettable finale to John Collins’ story, filled with heart, grit, and hard-earned wisdom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this gripping second part of Episode 251 of the Mike Drop Podcast, host Mike Ritland continues his conversation with John Collins, a former Navy SEAL with a storied journey through BUD/S training and beyond. This episode dives into a raw and intense recounting of a heated altercation during an ocean swim in BUD/S, where John faced off with a challenging swim buddy, leading to a physical confrontation that tested his resilience and discipline. From a broken mask to a post-swim showdown, John shares how he navigated conflict while maintaining focus on his goal of becoming a SEAL. The discussion also touches on his perspective on BUD/S training standards, the importance of maintaining rigorous standards, and his eventual transition into the SEAL Teams and the K9 program. Packed with vivid anecdotes and insights into the mental and physical grind of SEAL training, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the realities of elite military training and the unbreakable spirit required to succeed. Stay tuned for Part 3, where John’s story continues! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Surviving 2.5 Hell Weeks and 6 BUD/S Attempts | Ep. 251 In this episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, John Collins delivers an unfiltered, brutally honest account of what it really takes to become a Navy SEAL—and what happens when the dream nearly dies. This isn’t your typical war story. It’s about failing hard, facing humiliation, and coming back swinging. Raised by a hard-charging state trooper in small-town Maryland, John always knew structure. What he didn’t know was how far he’d have to go—how much he’d have to lose—before finally earning the Trident. From getting dropped at BUD/S to guarding terrorists in Guantanamo Bay, John’s journey is a masterclass in grit, redemption, and what it means to serve with purpose even when the path doesn’t go according to plan. Through multiple Hell Weeks, soul-crushing setbacks, and years of grinding through Navy politics, John fought like hell to get back into SEAL training. And he made it. But what happened after is just as powerful. From sniper to breacher to K9 handler, to a complete reinvention in civilian life—John proves that purpose doesn’t end with a uniform. ---------- Heartland Steak Stock up with a custom steak box or grab a grill-ready bundle —either way, you’re getting the best. And here’s the deal: $25 off any order of $175 or more with promo code MIKEDROP at checkout: https://www.heartlandsteakco.com/ SleepMe Visit www.sleep.me/MIKEDROP to get 20% off your Chilipad with code MIKEDROP, one word. That’s free shipping, free returns, and a 30-night sleep trial to test it for yourself. Again — that’s https://sleep.me/MIKEDROP. IDEO U Class starts soon, so enroll today! For a limited time, IDEO U is offering my listeners %15 OFF SITEWIDE! Go to https://www.ideou.com/mikedrop. BUBS Naturals BUBS Naturals products are rooted in sustainably sourced ingredients and controlled consistency to provide our customers with the highest quality Collagen Protein & MCT Oil Powder that help you feel amazing and live a fuller life. Our mission is simple. FEEL GREAT. DO GOOD. 10% always goes back to charity, helping military men and women transition back into civilian life. Go to https://www.bubsnaturals.com/mike and use code MIKE for 20% off your order. TEAM DOG FOOD, TREATS & SUPPLEMENTS Be Your Dog’s Hero: Veteran-owned by a former Navy SEAL and Special Operations K9 Trainer, Team Dog provides a complete diet of science-backed premium dog food, treats, and supplements to optimize your dog’s health, forged from rigorous standards and real-world expertise. https://www.teamdog.shop TEAM DOG ONLINE TRAINING Mike Ritland – a former Navy SEAL & Special Operations K9 trainer – shares his simple and effective dog training program to build trust and control with your dog. Based on Mike’s bestselling book “Team Dog, Train the Navy SEAL Way”, join tens of thousands of families that successfully trained their way to a better dog. https://www.teamdog.pet SHOP ALL THE MIKE RITLAND BRANDS Get all your Mike Ritland branded gear - Mike Drop | Trikos | Team Dog https://shop.mikeritland.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
loading
Comments (124)

قرآن 📿 Quran

سبحان الله و الحمدلله و لا اله الا الله و الله اکبر 🇵🇸 Free Palestine

Jun 26th
Reply

Chase Roehm

Until this podcast, I have yet to come across someone as odd as me... Writing and shooting left handed, but overall being right hand dominate. Crazy! Go Hawks!

Jun 26th
Reply

Blain Pritcher

dang this one has lots of ads

Jun 21st
Reply

Chase Roehm

I'm from the IA side of the Quad Cities and thought, "what a small world" it was hearing this podcast today. Keep up the excellence and GO HAWKS.

Mar 11th
Reply

Shane O Brien

Loved your podcast for years but I have to sadly unsubscribe for glorifying and promoting Genocidal Zionist! I have seved in the middle east including spending time in Israel Lebanon and Syria to name a few and the IDF spread Lies, hate and division everywhere they go.

Mar 11th
Reply

D Grassick

one of the best episodes of all time

Sep 21st
Reply

D Grassick

thanks mike

Dec 29th
Reply

D Grassick

unbelievable. ty for the pod

Dec 27th
Reply

Jack Dialate

what happened to the sound quality?

Sep 28th
Reply

Brian Beam

back to all the commercial interruptions...I guess I'll switch on to another podcast

Aug 24th
Reply

Brian Beam

great podcast! thanks for keeping the commercials tp a minimum👍👊

Jul 19th
Reply

Brian Beam

Much better with fewer commercial interruptions! Thanks!

Jul 5th
Reply

Brian Beam

ugh!! these commercials are like the pop up adds on phone apps. time to go back to the early days

Jun 23rd
Reply

Jack Dialate

the iphone scale had me in stitches. great episode thanks !

Jun 8th
Reply

Zachary Markham

lol, republican states aren't shitholes? are you even serious? Come to SC.

Jun 1st
Reply

Brian Beam

Correction, RUINED the podcast.

May 27th
Reply

Brian Beam

ugh! the commercials and advertisements ruin the flow of what are good interviews

May 27th
Reply

Brian Beam

Still one of my favorite podcasts...but...the commercials have spoiled the flow of conversations and cheapened your awesome work

May 16th
Reply

Jack Dialate

great episode thanks Hollie and Mike. thanks for an interesting perspective in Afghanistan

Feb 14th
Reply

Jack Dialate

the best episode yet

Dec 16th
Reply