The Jedburgh Podcast

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#145: Today's SOF Challenge - US Army Special Operations Command Commanding General LTG John Braga

2024-10-0401:04:46

Army Special Operations Forces are led by LTG John Braga, Commander of United States Army Special Operations Command. General Braga and Creator and Host Fran Racioppi stormed the Utah Beach Communication Bunker responsible for the coordination of German defenses and later the facilitation of the largest amphibious assault in history. From this iconic setting, we unpacked the significance of World War II on international norms still in play today and challenged at a level not seen since the pre-war era. General Braga shared his vision for Army Special Operations, his focus on threat-informed decision-making, and how Special Operations has evolved; but more importantly where it needs to go and why it’s not there yet. He also explains how Special Operations are preparing for conflict with nation-states like China and Iran, while also ensuring terrorist organizations have no sanctuary across the globe. Finally, we talk about integration, and why Special Operations is a critical node in the cyber and space fight deep behind enemy lines. Check out our conversation from underneath Utah Beach. Head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage from the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. And don’t miss our first documentary, Unknown Heroes: Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh available now only on YouTube. Highlights0:00 Introduction3:25 Welcome to the Le Roosevelt Cafe Bunker on Utah Beach8:14 Significance of Operation Jedburgh10:15 Rangers on Omaha Beach13:35 US Army Special Operations mission19:10 Role of Psychological Operations24:10 Winning Cognitive Warfare?29:43 A change to the Special Forces teams?32:10 Top priority on the next battlefield?41:10 Combatting an enemy that doesn’t value life?44:32 The USASOC culture49:43 Destroying the enemy55:28 USASOC’s future1:00:05 Foundations to Success Quotes“Here we have the Jedburghs, with small teams having complete outsized impacts.”“We challenge the force…to be strategically driven in everything you do.” “We weren’t created for counter-terrorism.” “You need to be an information officer.” “People are the weapon system of USASOC. That’s our greatest investment.”“Every STEM robotics club in high school in America needs to know we have a home for them in Army Special Operations. “We have to modernize. We have to change. Or we'll be behind the adversary.”“The only way to win is a whole of nation and whole of society approach.” “I want to be surrounded by people who want to push themself.” “Everyone should be challenging the training calendar. What are you training for?”“We can’t be afraid of changing because we might get something wrong.”The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Choose Elite: Jumping In with Premier Lacrosse League Co-Founder Paul Rabil (Stars and Stripes Classic Series)

2024-09-2626:05

There’s a difference between the elite and everyone else. Elite by definition means superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group or society. Elite is not good. It is not great. It certainly is not above average. To be elite means you’re among the best.The Stars and Stripes Classic pitted America’s two most elite Special Operations Forces against each other on the lacrosse field. To talk about what it means to be elite, not just in sports but in anything you do, Fran Racioppi sat down with Paul Rabil. Paul is the co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League and undoubtedly one of the most elite lacrosse players to ever play the game. Paul is multiple time NCAA champion, a four year All American, he holds NCAA records for the most goals, assists and points. He is a multiple time Player of the Year and two time champion. He holds the most points in professional lacrosse. He is what every young lacrosse player ascribes to be. Paul is also an elite visionary and businessman. He developed the PLL out of the gaps he saw as a player. Now he’s changing professional sports and how athletes are treated by owners. Check out our conversation from the endzone of Gillette Stadium to learn how anyone can be elite if you're ready to put in the work and relentlessly execute. Head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters took on the Frogmen. Highlights0:00 Introduction2:33 Stars and Stripes Classic4:18 The level of play5:57 Toughness & extra work8:31 Earn it every day12:49 Building an elite sports league18:15 How does it feel?22:08 How to process the hard times Quotes“Lacrosse is sloppy. That’s also the beauty of it.” “Those that choose to be elite, it’s a lifestyle.” “Earn the right to stay here and be here.” “You just don’t really fake integrity. Someone will suss it out.” “If you don’t go all in, you’ll never reach your potential.” “Attempting to become a subject matter expert is so important in entrepreneurship.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League and Kraft Sports and Entertainment for hosting the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Toughness is 100%: Jumping In with West Point Lacrosse Head Coach Joe Alberici and Ben Harrow (Stars and Stripes Classic Series)

2024-09-1920:13

Toughness defines Special Operations and the sport of lacrosse. Toughness requires a person to deal with hardship, overcome difficult situations, persevere through mental and physical challenges. Toughness is one part natural, one part learned, and one part the result of consistency. To excel as a Green Beret, Navy SEAL or a lacrosse athlete, you better be tough. Joe Alberici and Ben Harrow are two tough men. Joe is the head coach of Men’s lacrosse at West Point, and Ben is a West Point lacrosse alumni, Green Beret and double leg amputee.Coach and Ben joined Fran Racioppi to recap the Stars and Stripes Classic, what it meant for our Green Berets and Navy SEALs to face off on the lacrosse field, how to build teams based on being tough, and what it takes to win no matter the challenge; whether that’s on the playing field, the battlefield or the boardroom. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters took on the Frogmen. Highlights0:00 Introduction2:05 Stars and Stripes is in the books3:17 Break down the game for us4:57 Ben Harrow is toughness6:46 Why is toughness important?10:39 West Point lax is a player15:01 Put in the extra work16:22 What did you tell the team after the game?Quotes“Clock got a little short on us. Time ran out.”“Toughness is when you're 100%, 100% of the time.” “Grateful for everything. Entitled to nothing.” “If you can be an elite human being…you’ll probably be a pretty darn good Army lacrosse player.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League and the Kraft Group for hosting us the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Putting Players First: Jumping In with Premier Lacrosse League Co-Founder Mike Rabil (Stars And Stripes Classic Series)

2024-08-2919:38

The greatest entrepreneurial adventures take a lot of sleepless nights, a bias for action and a commitment to people. Starting a professional sports league is no different. As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi is joined by Mike Rabil, the co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League. Mike and his brother Paul, started the league with a vision to put the players at the center of the business model.From better pay, to open marketing, to benefits and equity in the league, they’re redefining how professional sports embraces their athletes.Mike shared the market opportunity he and Paul saw in lacrosse and how they relentlessly pursued investment and support. He explained how giving players equity, access to marketing content and a seat at the table have created a more inclusive league. And he showed us where the sport is headed with regional affiliation. They also previewed the Stars and Stripes Classic coming September 2 to Gillette Stadium where the bonds between lacrosse and Special Operations will face off for the very first time. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with the business mind behind the PLL, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen. Highlights0:00 Welcome to Fairfield University4:15 What was the vision for the PLL?6:21 How do you start a pro sports league?8:10 How does the open marketing concept help promote the game?10:20 Why introduce regional affiliation?12:07 Why keep the 2-point shot?12:48 How do you recruit the best athletes to lacrosse?15:46 The Stars and Stripes Classic?Quotes“I slept on a lot of hotel floors. Cried, bled a lot.” “People ask us who our competitors are. I say ‘all the other sports.’” “We know we need to continue to pay the players more.” “Each time these guys stop on the field they get five stock options.” “The lacrosse community is really tied into Special Forces.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Winning Is In The Details: Jumping In with California Redwoods Head Coach Nat St. Laurent (Stars and Stripes Classic Series)

2024-08-2419:08

Performing at an elite level isn’t about doing special things. It’s about focusing on the basics and the fundamentals; then executing them with precision. A coach’s job is to harness the energy of the players and direct it towards a common goal. As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Head Coach of the California Redwoods and Army Reservist Nat St. Laurent. Nat’s primary mission is to take a group of elite alpha lacrosse athletes all capable of big things and get them to focus on the little details; a skill he learned teaching soldiers to throw hand grenades as an instructor. He shares his Army lessons learned and how they made him a better coach.Nat also provided his perspective on the growth of the Premier Lacrosse League, how regional affiliation has enhanced the fan base, and how everything the PLL does is all out; including the 2-point shot. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of the PLL’s inaugural coaches, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen. Highlights0:00 Introduction2:27 Welcome to Fairfield University3:14 PLL regional affiliation5:06 Growing the PLL fan base6:47 What Army lessons do you use as a coach?9:28 PLL player development11:32 The 2-point shot13:12 Staying focused in down times14:54 Stars and Stripes ClassicQuotes“Whatever the PLL does it’s all out.” “Being part of something bigger than yourself…it becomes an honor.” “It is extremely important to do those little things right and to do it with a purpose that’s bigger than yourself. “Our mindset every game is 1-0. We can’t do anything about the results from previous games.” “They’re not going to be able to turn over their compete level.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.

We're Not Playing For Second Place: Jumping In with Team USA Head Coach & Premier Lacrosse League Director of Competition Seth Tierney (Stars & Stripes Classic Series)

2024-08-2028:56

The United States doesn’t play for second place. Not on the battlefield and certainly not on the lacrosse field. As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with Head Coach of Team USA Seth Teirney. Seth is also the Director of Competition at the Premier Lacrosse League and the Head Coach of Hofstra University. He’s involved in every aspect and level of lacrosse from the pros down to youth. He’s a national champion as a coach and played in the National Lacrosse League as a player. Seth’s attitude about lacrosse is gold medal or bust. Fran and Seth covered why it takes “feeling the sport” to compete at the highest level as both an athlete and a coach. Seth shared the launch story of the PLL from a broken down bus in Israel and how the PLL honors the Indigenous legacy of lacrosse. Seth also gives his tips to parents raising athletes and explains what it means to coach the US National Team. Plus he makes his prediction for the battle of the year, as the Green Berets take on the Navy SEALs September 2 at Gillette Stadium.Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of lacrosse’s greatest players and coaches, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. Head over to Green Beret Foundation and join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen. Highlights0:00 Introduction1:27 Welcome to Fairfield University3:30 Setting the lacrosse example5:16 Growing the PLL7:12 The origins of lacrosse8:58 Lacrosse is about feeling10:49 How have the players evolved?12:48 Gold medal or bust14:08 How coaches have changed16:01 Is junior level competition healthy?18:00 A tribute to Andy Towers19:53 The PLL’s next phase21:48 Recruiting the top athletes22:46 Stars and Stripes ClassicQuotes“This whole thing started when a bus broke down in 2018 in Israel.”“This sport. Where it came from. It was not just playing. It was understanding.”“It’s not written down in a handbook. You’ve got to be able to feel the game.” “It’s an all-in sport that is on fire right now.” “There is no second place. We’re not playing for second place. It’s gold medal or bust.” “When we get the Stars and Stripes Game going…that’s a forever day.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.

#144: Leading with Diplomacy - General (Retired) Joseph Votel, Former CENTCOM & SOCOM Commander

2024-08-1501:18:50

For decades the Middle East has been America’s top national security challenge.From terrorism, to war, to regional instability, it takes more than a military effort to find solutions.As America navigates one of the most volatile times in history, Fran Racioppi sat down with retired General Joseph Votel, one of America’s most influential leaders and scholars in Middle East policy. General Votel served as Commander of United States Special Operations Command, US Central Command, Joint Special Operations Command and 75th Ranger Regiment; organizations critically responsible for America’s Middle East operations. General Votel unpacked the reasons why Hamas chose to attack Israel, Iran’s malign influence, and the responsibility of the other Gulf states in preventing regional instability. He also broke down the opportunities the United States has across the diplomatic, information, military and economic spectrum; including America’s ability to mobilize for a peer-to-peer fight. Plus he talked all things Ranger Regiment, the officer-NCO relationship, and keys to effective leadership. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one the Army’s most respected leaders then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch up on our entire national security series from Washington, DC and Fort Liberty, NC. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to Odgers Berndtson3:07 The rise of China and Russia13:47 Why is Iran on the offensive?21:14 Using the elements of National Power24:34 The impacts of the Israel-Gaza War32:55 General Votel’s call to serve42:35 Advice to new leaders47:42 How the NCO corps separates the US military 56:46 The role of Special Forces in the peer-to-peer fight1:05:09 Solving the recruiting challenge1:13:28 General Votel's Three Daily FoundationsQuotes: “In a word, they’ve had it and they're trying to reassert themselves.” “Putin has pretty much told us what he wants to do. He wants to eclipse the United States.” “The Gulf partners, the other Arab states, aren’t that keen on having a new Palestinian state in the region.”“We have over-militarized a lot of our foreign policy in these areas. We need to be leading with diplomacy.”“If you open these humanitarian corridors, are you arming your adversary?” “When I showed up to West Point…instant buyer’s remorse.” “To me, leadership has really become about the basics.” “I had a Sergeant Major. Bill Thetford. We were together for eight plus years; longer than the average American marriage.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to Odgers Berndtson for hosting this conversation.

#143: There's No Do-overs In The Next Fight - Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer

2024-08-0257:271

The responsibility for recruiting, training and retaining US Army soldiers sits on the shoulders of the Sergeant Major of the Army; a job in which there is no training course and where experience is the defining factor. To break down what the Sergeant Major of the Army does, the current state of the Army, and where the Army is headed, Fran Racioppi traveled deep into the center of the Pentagon for a conversation with Sergeant Major Mike Weimer, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Army and the first Green Beret selected for the role. The SMA defined professional warfighting and the importance of an all volunteer force. He broke down the art and science relationship between commissioned and non-commissioned officers. He shared how his experience in the Special Forces shadows prepared him for the limelight of the SMA role. And they talked about the future, including his vision for solving the recruiting challenge, how warfare is evolving from the kill chain to the kill web, how he’s planning to retain the right people, and how the integration of Special Operations and the regular Army is more important now than ever. Highlights:0:00 Introduction2:53 The Army is busy 3:52 The Professional Warfighter11:40 People are the Army’s weapons system 15:53 The relationship between Commanders and NCOs22:24 SMA Weimer’s transition from the shadows25:55 The Army’s recruiting challenges34:51 CTCs and the Kill Web40:12 Retaining the best and brightest43:50 Integrating Special Forces and the regular Army50:36 The Army’s biggest opportunity52:17 Daily Foundations to SuccessQuotes: “Those that are committed, I remind them; the audio and video has got to match.” “All of the services are platform centric. The Army’s platform is its people.” “The non-commissioned officer is the asymmetric advantage.” “The things that are usually the hardest in life are the things that are usually the most rewarding.” “Whatever you’ve done prior to coming into this seat is how you’ve prepared.” “We’re on track to make our numbers this year….We need those numbers to be higher in upcoming years.” “I have a fair amount of combat…I’ve never been to war.” “You don’t necessarily get do-overs in the fight that we’re preparing for now.”“It’s not just about retaining people; it’s about retaining the right people.”“Standards and discipline can’t just be some whimsical thing we throw around.”Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with the Army’s most senior non-commissioned officer, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch up on our entire national security series from Washington, DC and Fort Liberty, NC. The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

#142: Lethality, Audacity, Creativity - Leading the Special Forces Regiment - Major General Gil Ferguson, Commanding General, 1st Special Forces Command

2024-07-2001:01:30

Lethality, audacity and creativity. That’s the culture of the Special Forces Regiment and the values each Special Operator is expected to live by. They’re also the foundation of what it takes to be the premier partnered irregular warfare force in the arsenal of the United States Military. Our nation’s Green Berets, Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations soldiers are led by Major General Gil Ferguson; the Commanding General of 1st Special Forces Command. For the final interview of our Fort Liberty series, Fran Racioppi sat down with General Ferguson for a conversation on what it takes to man, train and equip our Special Forces units. They dug into his goal to enhance the culture of the Regiment, how the Special Forces Groups are preparing for regional conflicts with unknown enemies, at unknown times; and just how Green Berets are solidifying themselves as the go-to option in the deep sensor fight against our peer adversaries.General Ferguson also explains the SOF-Space-Cyber Triad, where he sees Special Forces in a decade, and as our units evolve, what needs to stay the same. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with America’s top Green Beret, then head over to our YouTube channel to watch General Ferguson share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to the JFK Special Warfare Museum4:04 The premier partnered irregular warfare force7:18 Man, train, equip for any theater9:40 The culture of 1st SFC13:52 The misperceptions of Special Forces18:50 SOF in the Peer-to-Peer Fight27:16 How is SOF keeping people first?34:07 SOF, Space Cyber Triad39:43 Where are Special Forces in 5-10 years?42:14 How are Civil Affairs and PsyOps integrating into the SOF battlefield?50:47 What has to stay the same in SOF?54:32 Daily Foundations For SuccessQuotes: “The United States fights coalition warfare. We don’t ever want to fight by ourselves.” “We don’t know where the next fight’s going to be, we don’t know who it’s gonna be with, and we don’t know when it’s gonna start.”“The guys we are running the Columbian military were all folks that were captains with me when I was a 7th Group Commander.”“Technology is not going to win the next fight. The side that most effectively and audaciously employs technology is going to win.”“18x make up more than 50% of our force now; and that is a good thing.”“I don’t want to spend time in my office. That is not where I’m effective.” The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

#141: Don't Show Up For The Minimum - USAJFKSWCS Command Chief Warrant CW5 Gary Ostrander

2024-07-0536:16

Special Forces Warrant Officers are subject matter experts in unconventional warfare, operations and intelligence fusion, and planning and execution. They also advise commanders on all aspects of special operations and are responsible for the integration of emerging technologies. To explore the unique role of the Special Forces Warrant Officer, Fran Racioppi asked the Command Chief Warrant Officer of the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gary Ostrander to join him from the Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty, NC. With over 30 years in the Army, Gary advises the commander and sergeant major of SWCS on best practices for training and developing our US Army Special Operations soldiers. After they defined what it takes to succeed as a Special Forces Warrant, they explained SWCS 2030, the importance of duration in assessment and selection, how technology is being integrated into training, how to create a training program that prepares people for anything and innovation in recruiting initiatives. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of Special Forces most experienced leaders then head over to our YouTube channel to watch CW5 Ostrander share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh. Highlights:0:00 Introduction3:01 What’s the role of the Special Forces Warrant Officer?11:51 What is SWCS 2030?17:11 What technology is paramount on the next battlefield?19:04 The evolution of the peer-to-peer fight23:56 What are the innovative ways ARSOF is recruiting?29:30 What are you most excited about in the next generation? 31:18 Daily Foundations to SuccessQuotes: “The warrant specifically focuses on those long term planning operations and actions.” “We focus on that end product. How do we produce the best product?”“More than likely you will be seen by an unmanned system.” “We’re the melting pot for the operational force’s #1 select cadre to come back and train and mentor the next generation.” “How do they look at a problem set and become the world’s most adaptive problem solvers?” “If you show up for the minimums there’s a very slim chance that you are going to be one of the ones selected.”The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.Special thanks to Roxanne Merritt and the entire team at the Special Warfare Museum for graciously hosting this series.

C-47's, War In Europe, Immigration & The State Of Congress - FL Representative Mike Waltz (80th Anniversary of D-Day Series)

2024-06-2820:58

The 80th Anniversary of the D-Day invasion included many reenactment jumps, but none as visually captivating as the one in Mont St. Michel. A jump that featured multiple sorties of C-47s and some of America’s most important leaders donning the battle uniform of our airborne predecessors. Included in this stick was Florida Congressman and fellow Green Beret Mike Waltz. After a quick exit and soft landing, Congressman Waltz spent some time with Fran Racioppi on the drop zone to talk D-Day, World Order and the current state of Congress. With Mont-Saint Michel in the background, and jumpers still falling, they dug into our national security challenges in the Middle East, Ukraine and China; and how immigration policy is rapidly becoming the decisive issue. They also unpacked the need for professionalism in Congress, how polarization is affecting getting things done and what we can expect from our political leaders as we gear up for an election cycle that looks more like a night combat jump with high winds and a small drop zone. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation from one of the most surreal spots on the globe then head over to our YouTube channel to as we share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh. Highlights:0:00 Introduction02:10 Jumping into Mont St. Michel5:20 What is NATO’s role in global conflict?9:35 Can America mobilize a whole of society approach?12:34 Why is DOD calling for a reduction in Special Forces?14:14 Why can’t we just close the border? 17:01 What can we expect during the upcoming election cycle?Quotes: “Vintage birds. Vintage uniforms. But the parachutes are new Mr. Speaker.” (2:53) “We can’t keep asking the American taxpayer to dig deeper and deeper into their pocket while the European taxpayer isn’t being asked to do the same thing.” (7:09) “We should be flooding the world with cleaner, cheaper American oil and gas.” (8:00) “What I want is that every time Chairman Xi gets out of bed and looks across the Taiwan Strait he says ‘ah…they're still too tough, we’re not ready.’" (10:56)“The more the Chinese Communist Party are looking over their shoulder, the less they’re looking across the Pacific.” (12:25) “Those support men and women for the Special Operations community keep us out of wars. Those are the left of bang.” (13:55) “The cartels are behind all of this…We know from Plan Colombia how to take down cartels.” (16:04) "The world is a calm place when America is strong.” (18:35)

#140: You Better Be More Than A Good Dude - Medal of Honor Recipient CSM Matt Williams & LTC Dave Lucas, Special Forces Qualification Course MOS Phase

2024-06-2150:06

Stress is the great equalizer in leadership. When you're cold, you're wet, you're tired, your company’s losing money, you have no revenue, you’re pinned down by enemy fire, or you're down by five with two minutes left, great organizations need leaders who stand up, take charge, make decisions and act. America’s Green Berets are the best in the world at leading under stress.To unpack just how we’re selecting the next generation of Special Forces Operators, Fran Racioppi sat down with the team responsible for training them; LTC Dave Lucas and Medal of Honor Recipient Command Sergeant Major Matt Williams; the command team for 4th battalion, 1st Special Warfare Training Group, otherwise known as the MOS phase of the Qualification Course. From the JFK Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty’s John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School they cover the Q-course; what it takes to be a successful Alpha, Bravo, Charlie or Echo; how they’re upholding the standard and preparing the force for the peer-to-peer battlefield and the difference between motivation and leadership. Plus CSM Williams shares his account of the Battle of Shok Valley and why sometimes the greatest displays of leadership have nothing to do with rank, position, or tenure. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation then head over to our YouTube channel to watch this episode and watch CSM Williams & LTC Lucas share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh. Highlights:0:00 Introduction5:35 Succeeding in the Special Forces Qualification Course10:10 Scenario-based training to a standard15:30 Preparing Special Forces for the next battlefield22:15 Motivation isn't leadership28:57 CSM Williams Medal of Honor battle in Afghanistan 413:40 Daily Keys to SuccessQuotes: “Our job is to teach them the fundamental skills that they will utilize, that they will bring to their operational detachments.” (6:43) “When it’s cold, it’s wet and it sucks, we want guys that understand why they're here.” (7:56) “What we really try to do is eek out your capabilities under stress.” (11:48)“The standard is the standard, is the standard, is the standard.” (13:46) “We’re sending guys out to the force to do some of the hardest things in the world, and they can’t just be because you're a good dude.” (15:13) “Motivation and leadership are not the same thing.” (23:42)“It’s two junior bravos on the side of a cliff figuring out what we’re going to do.” (36:55)Special thanks to Roxanne Merritt and the entire team at the Special Warfare Museum for graciously hosting this series.

#139: SWCS 2030 – Special Warfare Training For The Peer-To-Peer Fight – BG Will Beaurpere & CSM Lee Strong

2024-05-2359:01

One hundred men will test today. But only three win the Green Beret. Developing America’s Green Berets takes a vision for the future, knowledge of the past, and an understanding of the present. The John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School is the home of both training Green Berets and developing the policy and doctrine our Special Forces operate by. To share the mission of SWCS, Fran Racioppi sat down with Commanding General Brigadier General Will Beaurpere and Command Sergeant Major Lee Strong from the JFK Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty, NC. BG Beaurpere and CSM Strong explained how SWCS 2030 will develop a more prepared Special Forces Regiment through the establishment of three Branch Schools for Green Berets, Civil Affairs and Psyops, each under their own O-6 level command. They also break down irregular warfare, why it’s important, and how it’s complemented by psychological operations; another school being developed through SWCS 2030. Finally they talk recruiting as the GWOT generation of soldiers is retiring and SOF was directed to cut personnel, while enforcing the standard, continuously improving professionalism, and integrating technology and automation into the force. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation about the past, present and future of SWCS. Then head over to our YouTube channel to watch BG Beaurpere and CSM Strong share the importance of the Jedburghs in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh. The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to the Special Warfare Museum 2:27 The SWCS mission8:42 SWCS 203012:03 Commandants, Irregular Warfare & the Psywar School22:00 SOF’s role in Strategic Disruption30:33 How do you maintain the Special Forces Standard?36:08 Integrating technology but building leaders first49:08 The 3 Keys to Daily SuccessQuotes: “We watch the battlefield of the modern era and we draw that into our doctrine.” (5:02)“The cadre is where you really achieve mastery.” (8:04)“Psychological Warfare is something we’ve conducted for the preponderance of our history as a military.” 17:01“That’s what SOF does…conduct operations and activities forward, before conflict.” (20:06)“The one place we will not assume risk, and cannot assume is risk, is in the production of world class special forces, civil affairs and psyops soldiers.” (28:37)“What is the one or two percent we can do to improve to ultimately make this better, myself better, the team better.” (34:45)“You're only as hard as your last hard thing.” (53:04)Special thanks to Roxanne Merritt and the JFK Special Warfare Museum for graciously hosting this series.

#138: Un-mythed! No Loyalty Between Veterans - Alpha Elite Performance Founder Travis Wilson (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

2024-05-0319:24

Social Media doesn’t tell the real story. It might look like we’re crushing it online, but the reality is that it’s held together by toothpicks and dental floss. For the final episode of the 2023 Army Navy Game Tailgate Series, Fran Racioppi welcomed back Travis Wilson; fellow Green Beret, entrepreneur, and Green Beret Foundation’s Director of Mission & Program Delivery. Travis and Fran debunk the myth behind Green Beret to Green Beret support; and why supporting each other’s businesses, families and initiatives is an important part of post-military success. As Green Berets we would have given our lives for the guy next to us; but when we get out, we forget that our brothers need the same level of support in the next chapter. In a Jedburgh Podcast first, Travis flips the script and asks Fran how he’s doing. Plus they catch up on the newest products from Alpha Elite Performance and how the AEP Outdoors is taking Veterans fishing in Mexico and heli-hunting across the world.Veterans know better than anyone the challenges other Veterans face in service and beyond; yet they’re often the last to volunteer support physically or financially to Veteran Service Organizations. We need Veterans to match civilian levels of support. Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation. Then grab a pre-workout, some GBNT Sleep and Rally and Recover. The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to the Army Navy Game Tailgate4:47 The most support comes from those who didn’t serve7:24 Green Berets need to support other Green Berets10:46 Extreme outdoors with AEP Outdoors11:50 Alpha Elite Performance drops Rally & Recovery13:45 Army by 715:18 How’s Fran doing?Quotes: “Our biggest support has come from people who didn’t serve.” (5:52) “The true impact for guys like you and I is it creates an environment for us to get together.” (6:37) “It’s very healing to get back together with other Green Berets and their families.” (7:47)“These guys are hurting and struggling because they’re not getting the support of the brotherhood.” (9:50) “The only person that ever failed is the one that quit. So don’t quit.” (17:29) “I don’t look at anything and say I can’t do it. I look at everything and I say how do I make it happen.” (17:53)

#137: Screwdrivers Can't Change Tires - Home Base CEO BG(R) Jack Hammond (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

2024-04-2622:03

America’s military must return our service members back to society ready to lead. Special operators are given the best tools in the military to do their jobs. They’re also completely immersed into the special forces lifestyle with almost no distractions. Yet when they leave service, they’re often left to themselves to find the right tools and to figure out what training they need to be successful in the next chapter. Two of America’s most important organizations have partnered to bring our Veterans the best tools and training all wrapped up into an immersive, life changing program. For the third episode of our 2023 Army Navy Game tailgate series Fran Racioppi sat down with retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond, CEO of Home Base. Home Base is founded and supported by the Boston Red Sox and Mass General Hospital; a formidable team dedicated to winning and solving the most complex challenges in medicine and athletic performance.Home Base provides leading edge clinical care to the medical challenges faced by our veterans; including the effects of prolonged blast exposure, mental trauma, diabetes and even cancer. Veterans train directly with the best medical and athletic performance professionals in the industry with one goal in mind; return our military personnel back to society ready to perform at the highest level and continue to lead others. Take a listen, watch or read our conversation…and whether you’re from Beantown or not, this is a Red Sox game you want to be a part of. The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to the Army Navy Game Tailgate3:50 Home Base is built by the Boston Red Sox & Mass General7:06 Two months of therapy in two weeks11:18 How Home Base is treating Operator Syndrome16:38 How to support Home Base17:50 Proven results of the programQuotes: “When you look at the opportunity with those two powerhouse organizations and what the potential is to actually bend the curve and make a difference; they had me at hello.” (5:30) “We have access to the best clinical resources in the world. Bar none.” (6:12) “We created this 14-day intensive clinical program…that compresses two years of therapy into two weeks.” (8:55)“We’re gonna be able to figure out what are the downstream chronic illnesses associated with concussive injury.” (13:49) “If you don’t have the tools to do a job, it’s like a monkey trying to change a tire with a screwdriver.” (19:50)

#136: The Mission, the Men, Me - Life After the Green Beret - Cold Zero Spirits Founder Casey Maxted & Secret Service Agent Bill "Hawk" Albracht (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

2024-04-1923:171

“The mission. The men. Me.” The “3 M’s” of leadership taught to officers in Vietnam and still applicable to building great leaders in any industry. As leaders we put people first, but sometimes the mission must happen regardless of the people.For the second episode of our 2023 Army Navy Game tailgate party, we warmed up with a little Cold Zero Whiskey and a conversation with two former Green Berets of very different generations who left service for federal law enforcement. Casey Maxted and Bill “Hawk” Albracht joined Fran Racioppi to share why grit and teamwork were critical to their careers in Special Forces, in the FBI and Secret Service, and now as they build a spirits company. Grab a glass of Cold Zero then take a listen, watch or read our conversation as Casey breaks down the opportunities and challenges that come with starting a spirits brand, and Bill shares what it was like to go back to Vietnam and walk the battlefield he once fought on. The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to the Army Navy tailgate3:48 Hawk volunteers for Vietnam4:32 Casey volunteers after 9/115:27 Hawk protected four Presidents in the Secret Service7:56 Casey joins the FBI8:48 The character traits needed to build elite teams after Special Forces12:21 Founding Cold Zero14:09 Biggest challenge of starting a spirits company16:27 How Warrior Rising is supporting Veteran entrepreneurs17:46 The Greatest Generations Foundation takes Veterans back to their battlefieldsQuotes: “I want to join the Army. I want to be a paratrooper. I want to go Infantry. And I want to go to Vietnam.” (4:09)“Air Force One flew right over me and I don’t know what happened, but that moment is when I was like ‘I’m gonna serve’.” (5:04) “The protection of Jimmy Carter, or Ronald Reagan, or George Bush, it never varied…time seems to by quicker when you’re with somebody that you admire.” (7:40)“You look for grit in almost everything that you do. People that are gonna stick with it when the cards are stacked against you.” (9:06) “There’s the three M’s of leadership: the mission, the men and me.” (10:18) “If we truly understand our mission….in those moments when we’re under pressure, when there’s chaos, when there’s confusion, we can come back to that guiding fabric.” (11:40) “It’s not about the individual. It is about the team. The team going forward. The team accomplishing the mission.” (12:15)

#135: A Green Beret's Hardest Mission - Green Beret Foundation CEO Charlie Iacono & Green Beret Nick Lavery (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

2024-04-1233:05

There’s a dangerous difference between a Quiet Professional and Silent Professional. We’re conditioned as Green Berets to put the mission first and get the job done. That’s why Army Special Forces are the tip of the spear in both wartime and peace. For our first tailgate interview, and to kick off The Jedburgh Podcast’s new home as an official program of the Green Beret Foundation, Fran Racioppi sat down with CEO Charlie Iacono and America’s largest Green Beret Nick Lavery. Charlie shares his vision to enhance educational opportunities, make benefits the easiest part of transition and how he’s preparing the organization for America’s next battlefield. Nick explains how he’s committed to keeping Green Berets first in the fight and why telling our stories is critical to both retention and recruiting the next generation. Americans in combat may be out of the spotlight, but Green Berets continue their mission in every corner of the world and supporting them and their families will always be the core mission of the Green Beret Foundation. You decide if we’re in a 1939 moment and never forget… the Boston Tea Party was an Army operation…Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Tailgating from Gillette Stadium3:27 The Boston Tea Party was an Army operation; NOT Navy!5:37 Charlie’s vision as CEO of Green Beret Foundation9:25 Why demand for Green Beret support is greater now than during the War on Terror12:13 GBF advocates are in every active duty Special Forces Group17:45 The dangerous difference between Quiet Professional & Silent Professional27:17 Are we living in a 1939 moment?30:44 A cameo from US Army Special Operations Command Commanding General LTG Jonathan BragaQuotes: “This is where it all started. A couple of guys in a bar with some ideas…and look where we are today.” (4:17) “We are one of the few organizations that service and support the Veteran community of the Regiment and also the active duty space.” (7:12) “It’s a commitment I made since day one. When that phone rings we’re gonna pick it up.” (8:55)“The Special Forces ODA has been the most requested SOF unit of action since the beginning of the Global War on Terrorism.” (9:48) “Just because it’s not as obvious, do not mistake that for the need to no longer exist.” (11:20) “Why does it seem like the hardest mission a Green Beret has to deal with is when he gets out he’s trying to get his benefits.” (13:529) “My biggest challenge that I ever faced was not becoming a Green Beret…it was actually not being a Green Beret anymore.” (15:13) “There’s a massive difference between being a quiet professional and being a silent professional.” (18:45) The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#134: Yoga, NYC Body Shaming & Taking Your Own Leg – Combat Wounded Amputees Dan Nevins & Elana Duffy (2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series)

2024-01-3158:29

Could you make the decision to remove your own leg. What if you’d already lost the other and taking the second meant starting over? For the final episode of the 2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade, Fran Racioppi and Psychotherapist Drew Newkirk were joined by Dan Nevins and Lana Duffy; two Army soldiers who were faced with one of life’s toughest decisions. Dan nearly lost his life in an IED explosion in Iraq, now after losing his legs, he shares how Yoga and Wounded Warrior Project saved him from depression, substance abuse and suicide. Lana suffered for years with an undiagnosed brain injury that prevented her physical recovery; today she’s the parades honorary Grand Marshal explaining how to navigate NYC’s culture of beauty and perfection with a body that doesn’t look like everyone else. Life is full of difficult decisions and most often the toughest decisions are thrust upon us. Are you ready to take action and do something when most are unwilling? Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to “Alive Day”6:53 Dan gets pinned in his vehicle after an IED explosion21:49 Battling depression, substance abuse and motivation28:15 How yoga without his legs saved Dan32:40 The effect of body shame and limiting disabilities after Lana’s IED blast42:26 Dating in NYC with one leg57:54 Dan and Lana tell their stories to help others Quotes: “The greatest casualty is being forgotten.” (2:35) “When the explosion happened I could feel and hear the truck basically disintegrate around my body.” (12:48) “I knew I was going to die. I was making my peace with God. I was just giving up.” (15:19) “They met me with a backpack and a promise that whatever I needed, whatever my family needed, they’d be there.” (20:54) “I self-medicated with accomplishment, achievement, doing something.” (23:54) “Yoga teacher training was the best leadership school I’ve ever been to in my life.” (31:33) “I was doing limb salvage not just because I wanted to keep my leg, it was ‘I can’t be seen as weak.’” (34:32) “Keep doing good things because that’s how you’ll be remembered.” (53:43) Brought to you in partnership with Just Ice Tea, Longtab Brewing & Talent War Group.

#133: America's National Will, Bias For Action & Friendless Men - MACV-SOG Green Beret Richard Rice & GORUCK Founder Jason McCarthy (2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series)

2024-01-1936:24

Great leaders exist in every industry. When we think about great leaders we often remember the things they did. But what’s more important is the impact they had on individuals, teams, organizations and society.For the second episode of our 2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series, Fran Racioppi and Psychotherapist Drew Newkirk welcomed two Green Berets from very different wars creating impact across generations. CSM Richard Rice served as a Green Beret in MACV-SOG in Vietnam and later became one of the founding members of Delta Force. Jason McCarthy served in 10th Special Forces during the Iraq war and went on to found GORUCK. Today they’re swapping roles as mentor and mentee as they apply their lessons from Special Forces to entrepreneurism, fitness, mental health and building community. We show you how to build organizations on character, why we must embrace challenge, how to live a life of bias for action, and how society is shaped by America’s Veterans after their military service. Drew also explores the difficulty elite performers have as they age and become friendless men; something scary to many of us. America became the greatest country in the history of the world because of a national call to service since the Boston Massacre. Today, the world is more dangerous than ever. It’s time we bring America’s people back together, rebuild our community and keep America atop the world order. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcoming a legend of the Special Forces Regiment8:34 Why need to do hard things; especially at GORUCK10:59 Preventing “friendless men”15:03 The character traits needed to succeed in elite organizations16:38 The films that shaped Rich’s perspective on the military 18:00 Why America must maintain our national will in the face of our adversaries24:14 Veteran service transcends their time in the military and carries into society25:10 How mentorship builds great organizations28:18 Making the case for military serviceQuotes: “Throughout my entire life I’ve always looked for the challenge. Something to test me.” (5:02)“It isn’t so much the military service…it’s what those Veterans bring back and what they put into our society after they’ve served.” (5:30)“There’s no other way to really know what someone else is made of unless you do something hard with them.” (10:17) “Have a bias for action in the real world and go get after it.” (13:56)“If you’re not honest with yourself, you can’t be honest with others.” (15:48) “We are in a peer-to-peer battle with not one nation, but a number of nation states.” (20:46) “America needs to come back together. You do that through communities.” (23:04)Brought to you in partnership with Just Ice Tea, Longtab Brewing & Talent War Group.

#132: The Biggest Veterans Day Event In America - NYC Commissioners James Hendon & Zach Iscol, Grand Marshal LTG(R) Mike Linnington, UWVC Chairman Nick Angione (2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series)

2024-01-1131:15

Veterans Day is about more than honoring service; it’s about preparing leaders to serve in the military and beyond. For the 104th running of the New York City Veterans Day parade from atop the red carpet Host Fran Racioppi is joined by special guest co-host Drew Newkirk to navigate conversations through the motorcycles, the sirens, the marching bands and the floats. They kick off the parade with two of New York City's most prominent veterans turned public servants; Commissioner James Hendon's a Reserve Army officer and leads New York City's Department of Veteran Services.Commissioner Zach Iscol served as a Marine, went on to found the Headstrong Project and now serves all New Yorkers leading Emergency Management. The Commissioners show us how to continue our impact post military service while leading our communities. We're also joined by Nick Angione and LTG(R) Mike Linnington. Nick's the chairman of United War Veterans Council, the organization charged with producing the parade and bringing 25,000 people to the heart of Manhattan.General Linnington is the CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project and was honored as the 2023 parade Grand Marshal. Nick breaks down the details of planning and hosting the largest veterans event in the country. LTG Linnington talks about the value that veterans bring to any organization and how hiring veterans isn't a charity move, it's a business decision.Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Highlights:0:00 Welcome to the 104th New York City Veterans Day Parade5:32 Why America needs Veterans in public service after the military7:27 There’s no panacea for Veterans mental health11:00 The excitement of the parade12:32 Honoring first responders at the parade 16:18 How United War Veterans Council produces the parade23:50 Developing leaders in the military from the first dayQuotes: “We look at all we have and how it’s borne on the backs of so few, it’s so critical for us to give these people their roses on days like today.” (4:01) “The military…is an incredibly effective way to learn the basic tenets of leadership.” (6:47) “There’s no panacea for mental health…you really have to use what works for the individual.” (7:53)“There’s 16+ million Veterans across the country. I’m representing them.” (24:18) “You can’t wait to be told what to do. You’ve got to understand your commander’s intent; your boss's intent. And then you’ve got to be able to act.” (26:03)“Hiring a Veteran isn’t a charity endeavor, it’s a business endeavor. You want to improve your business; hire Veterans.” (28:23) Brought to you in partnership with Just Ice Tea, Longtab Brewing & Talent War Group.

#box-pro-ellipsis-172924818284643{-webkit-line-clamp:2;}The Jedburgh Podcast