The Rooftop Podcast

This is probably a question you’ve asked yourself many times when building your movement, or product, or next big thing. When life taps us on the shoulder and challenges us to play a bigger game, this question is usually not far behind. It causes us to question ourselves, our purpose, even our ability. In this final episode of the Rooftop Podcast we explore not just the answer to this universal question, but how you can use that answer as your true north in every challenge you face from here on.   I’ll see you on the Rooftop! Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmann YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ   Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor   Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader     

As 2024 comes to a close, I think we could all take a little time to reflect on the tracks we’re leaving in this world. The impact we can make on our youth is one of the greatest legacy gifts we can give and one of the highest forms of social capital. Join me for a walk down the driveway to discuss what that looks like in your life! I’ll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmann YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ   Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor   Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader   

In this time of elections and the churn, I reflect on the past few transformative years—from the chaos of Afghanistan’s collapse and Operation Pineapple Express to the resurgence of my play, Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret. These experiences shaped Rooftop Leadership, a methodology rooted in four pillars: strategic impact, human nature, human connection, and deep work. Drawing from my Green Beret experiences, this approach confronts the disconnection and low-trust environments that dominate today’s world. By fostering meaningful relationships and addressing “the churn” of fear, distraction, and distrust, I aim to help leaders align with their deeper nature, inspire action, and drive profound, lasting change. I'll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmann YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader

While reflecting on the process of vulnerability in creative work, I shared a story inspired by Bubba, a friend writing about his near-death experience and grappling with fear as he prepares to release his book. I recalled my own anxiety when handing my first manuscript to Steven Pressfield, my literary hero. Despite initial doubts, his encouragement, including offering to write the foreword, changed my perspective. This journey taught me the importance of trusting others with your work and paying forward the support and kindness we receive. I'll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmannYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader  

As a nation, we can and must use the Green Beret Principles of trust, resilience, restoration, and more to face our foes abroad - and overcome the internal strife that besets American society today.” These are the words from “Hard Truths,” recently released by Congressman Mike Waltz, soon to be National Security Advisor (NSA) under President Trump. This podcast addresses the Hard Truths that Mike Waltz must consider around Afghanistan and the aftermath of the Afghanistan debacle and the “asleep at the switch” consequences of the past Administration. This podcast contains a no-B.S. run down of “hard truths” that speak to one of Waltz’s critical points as the National Security Advisor to President Trump, but also hard truths for you and me. Why? As Waltz Says…”We must be vigilant. Perhaps that is the hardest and most important, truth of all.” Get a notepad for this one. Let’s lean in, set our politics aside, and get focused and loud on these hard truths as we roll into 2025. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmannYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader   

In challenging times, when no one is coming to your rescue, and you're striving to create something greater than yourself—a groundbreaking product, a new business, or a non-profit—you’ll encounter significant obstacles. Understanding the sacrifices your bold ambitions demand is essential. This podcast will guide you through the process.   Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmannYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader  

What does the new National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz think about Afghanistan, the threat, and the resistance?Even before Shawn Ryan interviewed Commander Massoud, I hosted Congressman Mike Waltz, Legend, & Commander Massoud to discuss the botched Afghanistan withdrawal and what it might mean to us in the West.As Congressman Waltz prepares to take the reins as National Security Advisor to President Trump, this seems like a good time to put this hard-hitting discussion back on the street.Please check it out and share it widely.I'll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmann YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader  

As we move through another tough election, there is actually good news on the other side of it…if we choose to act on it. Join me and let’s discuss. I'll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmannYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader 

This message emphasizes the importance of finding and sharing your authentic voice as a leader, embracing vulnerability, and telling personal stories to foster deep connections and build social capital. True influence goes beyond success; it requires relatability, relevance, and a willingness to share difficult experiences to resonate deeply with others. Leadership involves persevering through fear, iterating on personal growth, and accepting that no one is coming to save you—progress depends on your commitment to show up and share your journey. By doing so, you empower others, inspire reciprocal support, and create meaningful change in both your community and yourself. I’ll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottmannWebsite: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ

I believe in getting big sh*t done even when nobody else is coming. I believe it to my core. This country is built on this concept. For me, one of those areas is mobilizing the GWOT Generation of veterans and military family members to solve wicked problems that supplement the gaps that are often not filled by the federal government. The abandonment of our Afghan Allies. The wildfires in Maui. The hurricane - ravaged hills of Western North Carolina. Our veteran network brings enormous horsepower to solving tough problems. It’s the ultimate private public partnership and it’s changing the game of how veterans can maintain relevance in a time when our country is extremely challenged. Task Force Pineapple is back and our veterans are stepping up in a big way. Give this episode a listen and then let me know: What’s your Pineapple Express? I’ll see you on the Rooftop! Scott   Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation!   Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaG

I get this question a lot. It can seem like a daunting reality when we arrive at the conclusion that some of our biggest problems in life require fully stepping into the arena and leading the way to solving these wicked problems. But, the truth is…once you take that first step on wobbly knees, there is a level of compelling connection that follows you into the darkest places. We are meaning-seeking creatures and there is a role for each one of us to play that’s much bigger than ourselves. Join me on this episode of the Rooftop Podcast to talk about what your role can be.   I’ll see you on the Rooftop! Scott   Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation!   Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership  Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ

We face a lot of moral dilemmas in this time of Churn don’t we? It seems like every decision that comes our way has elevated stakes and tremendous pressure attached to it. We’re pressed to often play a game we didn’t even sign on for. I get it. Here’s the thing: There is a way to lead through this with a very simple metric that might just make a difference for you. Join me in this episode and let’s map it out! I'll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadershipTwitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeaderYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  

What are you meant to do on this earth? Should you be playing a bigger game? Have you met success in what society says is important and still feel like there is a bigger game to play? You’re not alone. We are all primal creatures infused with a mandate to make meaning in the world. We ignore it at our peril. But how do you get big sh*t done in this time of Churn? We break it down and get the conversation moving in this powerful episode. I’ll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadershipTwitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeaderYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ 

This is one of the most important realizations leaders can reach in this unprecedented Churn of division we live in today. But, then what? When nobody is coming, how do we step into the arena? That is exactly what this Rooftop Podcast aims to answer and this episode will get the conversation going! I’ll see you on the Rooftop. Scott Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-streetScottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadershipTwitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeaderYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  

 23 years after the attacks of 9.11.2001, America is still reeling from the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan and the wholesale abandonment of our allies. It’s more important than ever that we not forget the lessons of 9.11.2001. Not just because of the moral imperative, and of the numerous sacrifices made by so many, but because of the likelihood that this failed withdrawal follows us home and puts us at even greater risk for another strike. I hope you’ll join me on this commemorative episode where we look at where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going in the ever-progressing story of the battle against violent extremism.PREVIOUS EPISODES ON AFGHANISTAN: “Finding Meaning in the Madness of War”“Saving Space Monkey: Storytelling in Real Time”“Chaos in Kabul”“Operation Pineapple: Deadline”“Afghan Bombing” Operation Pineapple Continues”“Punching Above Your Weight”  Operation Pineapple Express: https://operationpineappleexpress.com/Operation Pineapple Express Relief:  https://operelief.org Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ

This week on the ‘What’s Your Pineapple Express?’ series, Scott had the honor of sitting down and speaking with an incredible leader – Jason Howk. Jason leads a non-profit organization called Global Friends of Afghanistan and has continued doing amazing work while keeping Afghanistan at the forefront. Join us this week as Jason shares his many years of experience in Afghanistan, gives us insight into some very important information, and shares what we need to learn from the abandonment of Afghanistan. Some of the things he reveals about what happened with this abandonment and more importantly, what’s happening right under our noses in this growing safe haven will blow you away. Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Select Afghanistan experiences and published works SummaryJason Criss Howk spent 23 years in the U.S. Army as an Infantry and Sapper Paratrooper, and also as a South Asia Foreign Area Officer (Soldier-Diplomat).  His work in Afghanistan began in 2002 and has continued until the present day as he leads the Global Friends of Afghanistan educational non-profit organization that monitors and leads discussions on Afghan issues. Jason has worked on Afghanistan portfolios at the tactical, operational, strategic, national policy and international policy levels. He has taken part in a variety of missions to include military, diplomatic, intelligence, academic, and humanitarian efforts. During his Afghanistan work Jason worked daily with dozens of generals, ambassadors, and political appointees with Afghan portfolios. Due to his assignments and knowledge of the topic, Jason is one of the few Americans that has been privy to the discussions of all 4 presidential administrations as they planned their Afghanistan policy. Jason studied both Arabic and Dari at the Defense Language Institute, is a professor at the USAF Special Operations School, and is a Malone Fellow in Arab and Islamic Studies. He holds a Master’s Degree in South Asia and Middle East Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School, is a CGSC graduate, and was a term-member of the Council on Foreign Relations from 2010-2015. Jason is an award-winning author who has written 4 books in English and has published over 225 works since 2008 in over 40 outlets. As a professor, lecturer, and columnist he focuses on Afghanistan, Islam, terrorism, and various National Security topics. For his work on Afghanistan Major Howk earned the Legion of Merit award for his years of exceptionally meritorious service as a Soldier-Statesman, and two Bronze Star Medals. He also earned the Afghanistan Governmental Success medal from the President of Afghanistan. Afghanistan ExperiencesSep 2002-Sep 2003       Sep-Nov 2003: Operations officer Coalition Task Force 82. Engineer Operations Officer on MG Vines General Staff at Bagram Airfield. Focus on engineer support to daily counter-terrorism operations across the country. His key effort was the completion of the FOB Salerno Airfield and Heliport in Khost province. Tactical and Operational level experiences in various Eastern Provinces.Nov 2002-Sep 2003: Aide De Camp to MG Karl Eikenberry as he took over as Chief of the Office of Military Cooperation-Afghanistan at the U.S. Embassy Kabul and also as the U.S. Security Coordinator. They worked daily with Afghan cabinet members across all parts of the government for the first year of the interim government and got to know all of them intimately. MG Eikenberry was tasked with implementing the international Security Sector Reform program in Afghanistan, and as Chief OMC-A creating the Afghan National Army and MOD from scratch. Their typical daily interactions included the leaders of UNAMA, NATO-Nation Embassies, ISAF, the 3-star US Forces Commander, CENTCOM, OSD, the Joint Staff, the Intelligence Community, regional ambassadors, the Special Forces leaders training the ANA, and the US Ambassador. For the majority of the year Jason was the sole note-taker in over 4,000 hours of meetings and the drafter of reports to State, OSD, and CENTCOM.2004-July 2007During an assignment in TRADOC Jason began to create and teach courses in the Army and at civilian institutions about Afghan and Islamic culture. He helped the Engineer School develop their Cultural, Counter-insurgency, and Counter-IED training for 2LTs deploying to Afghanistan and Iraq. During company command the Army selected Jason for the highly competitive Foreign Area Officer (FAO) program after completing a fellowship in Oman where he studied their insurgencies and how they rebuilt their nation after those conflicts. He continued to study Afghanistan and stayed in touch with his former boss LTG Karl Eikenberry who was the Combined Forces commander in Afghanistan.2007-2009 FAO TrainingIn FAO training he obtained a Master’s Degree in South Asia and Middle East Security Studies at the Naval Postgraduate School in 2008. At NPS Jason focused on Afghanistan and the Oman counter-insurgency campaigns. He published a thesis on Oman’s COIN and CT lessons which was distributed to his former bosses LTG Eikenberry, LTG McChrystal, and GEN Petraeus. He also wrote a directed study on the creation of the Afghan Military and the US Security Sector Reform efforts that was published as a monograph by the US Army War College in 2009 with a foreword by GEN McChrystal. That study was completed after many interviews with LTG Karl Eikenberry who was then assigned to NATO, just prior to his selection as Ambassador to Afghanistan.From 2008-2009 Jason attended Arabic language training at DLI until the day LTG McChrystal was nominated by President Obama to command ISAF. He was immediately ordered to the Pentagon to prepare LTG McChrystal for senate confirmation and to assist him when he took command in Kabul.2009-2010 As ADC to LTG McChrystal, Jason helped prepare him for his assignment and attended all meetings with Legislative and Executive branch leaders in Washington. Within hours of the Senate confirmation, they flew to Brussels to meet with NATO leaders and then onwards to Kabul Afghanistan. In Kabul Jason helped GEN McChrystal form trusting relationships with the same Afghan leaders Jason worked closely with when they first formed the government in 2002.For the next 2 months Jason traveled with GEN McChrystal to over half the provinces to listen to NATO and Afghan forces, and Afghan leaders to better understand the war.  Jason assisted COMISAF during the strategic review of the U.S. and NATO Afghanistan policy, often quietly liaising between GEN McChrystal and Ambassador Eikenberry, his new and old bosses.After the strategic review was sent to CENTCOM Jason was selected to initiate and design the NATO interagency team focused on reintegration — i.e., how former insurgents could rejoin society. GEN McChrystal loaned Jason to support the incoming Reintegration Advisor who had worked on a similar mission in Iraq and would carry out sensitive diplomatic missions.As the Military Assistant and Political Advisor to retired British Lt Gen Sir Graeme Lamb. They worked with the Afghan government as they developed their peace and reintegration policy with foreign governments, diplomats, and international organizations. This also helped launch the US/NATO peace process and made Jason one of the insiders on Afghan peace talks for over a decade.2010-2014After a year in Dari (Afghan Farsi) language training at DLI, and graduation from the Army Command and General Staff College, Jason was assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s Afghanistan and Pakistan Task Force. In that role, he led two of the highest-level interagency teams of Afghanistan and Pakistan experts in providing products and briefings for the Joint Chiefs of Staff and OSD leadership, and the White House.  Also in that role, his teams helped prepare four different Generals to assume senior commands in Afghanistan. One of his team’s key efforts was monitoring and helping U.S. leaders prepare for diplomatic negotiations with the Taliban.2015-2021After retiring in 2015, Jason continued his focus on Afghanistan and Islam as a professor at numerous institutes and continued to advise the U.S. and Afghan governments, and international bodies.From 2016 to 2017, he served as an advisor on the Presidential Transition Team’s National Security cell focused on the Afghan peace process and foreign relations with Islamic nations. He contributed ideas to both the 2017 National Security Strategy and 2018 National Strategy for Counterterrorism.From 2017 onwards he served as an advisor on conflict resolution to the U.S. government, NATO member states, parts of the U.N., the Afghan President’s NSC staff, and the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces leadership.Jason was invited to give presentations at the 2019 and 2020 Central and South Asia Military Intelligence conferences at U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). His topics included the future of the ANDSF, and the Unconventional Warfare efforts of Pakistan against Afghan and NATO forces.Jason led a USIP project team to assess post-conflict security in Afghanistan that culminated in a an invitation from the Afghan President and UN Chief in Kabul to give a presentation to over 70 nations at the 2020 U.N. Donor Conference on Afghanistan in Geneva.A second USIP project allowed his team to remain involved in the peace process until August 2021 as part of a U.S. Institute of Peace project authorized to conduct Track-2 diplomacy while talking to the Afgh

What’s your Pineapple Express? This is the question Scott is asking everyone after the creation of Operation Pineapple Express in August of 2021. A group of veterans took a stand when no one else was coming - they saw the moral injury the withdrawal from Afghanistan was going to cause and knew something needed to be done. As we continue talking about Afghanistan, we are going to start broadening our conversations with leaders who are creating their own Pineapple Express. Join Scott this week as he fills you in on where we’re going and the amazing things to come. Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ

This week on the 'OPE: One Year Later' series, we are continuing our extended conversation on the collapse of Afghanistan and where we go from here. I’m reaching out to you and connecting with the prominent voices involved in the long war in Afghanistan as well as its future. Afghan voices, in many cases, have been muzzled and their voices are not heard. Our focus is to give them a platform to speak truth to power so that you can hear the stories not told and how it affects not only you and your family but the world for the future. In this episode, Lieutenant General Haibatullah Alizai, the former Commander of all Afghan Special Operations Forces and leader of the Afghan military in its final days gives a riveting description of what led to the collapse, what we can learn from it, and what we must do for the future in order to protect ourselves  at home. CONTEXT ON THIS SERIESIn August of 2021, the United States Government officially withdrew from Afghanistan leaving hundreds of thousands of at-risk Afghans vulnerable to Taliban brutality. Immediately, the impact of this moral injury was apparent on out Afghan allies and veteran populations with many of them left behind to deal with the aftermath that no one was coming. Scott and a team of combat veterans began to leverage their network of relationships to provide safe passage and ultimately relocation of hundreds of at-risk Afghans. Scott now has the opportunity to share the story of those Afghan Allies who made it out and of those who are still fighting their way to safety today, alongside many of the extraordinary men and women who made this possible. In this podcast series, Scott sits down with some of the members of Pineapple Express to share their stories and reflect on where we are one year later after the collapse of Afghanistan. PREVIOUS EPISODES ON AFGHANISTAN:“Finding Meaning in the Madness of War”“Saving Space Monkey: Storytelling in Real Time”“Chaos in Kabul”“Operation Pineapple: Deadline”“Afghan Bombing” Operation Pineapple Continues”“Punching Above Your Weight”Operation Pineapple Express: https://operationpineappleexpress.com/Operation Pineapple Express Relief:  https://operelief.orgOwn Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ

This week on the 'OPE: Three Years Later' series, Scott had the opportunity to sit down with another incredible and experienced individual, Lieutenant General Sami Sadat. Over the last year, many of our veterans and citizens have asked "what was the point?" in reference to Afghanistan. It has been very hard to process the loss and impact under the shadow of the withdrawal and abandonment. But as a former member of the Afghan National Army, Sami points out - the end is not written. The men and women of Afghanistan who grew up under relative freedom and other opportunities may just take back their country and carve out their future - with or without us. The future of Afghanistan and the U.S are inextricably linked. Join Scott and Sami to learn why.  CONTEXT ON THIS SERIESIn August of 2021, the United States Government officially withdrew from Afghanistan leaving hundreds of thousands of at-risk Afghans vulnerable to Taliban brutality. Immediately, the impact of this moral injury was apparent on out Afghan allies and veteran populations with many of them left behind to deal with the aftermath that no one was coming. Scott and a team of combat veterans began to leverage their network of relationships to provide safe passage and ultimately relocation of hundreds of at-risk Afghans. Scott now has the opportunity to share the story of those Afghan Allies who made it out and of those who are still fighting their way to safety today, alongside many of the extraordinary men and women who made this possible. In this podcast series, Scott sits down with some of the members of Pineapple Express to share their stories and reflect on where we are one year later after the collapse of Afghanistan.  PREVIOUS EPISODES ON AFGHANISTAN:“Finding Meaning in the Madness of War”“Saving Space Monkey: Storytelling in Real Time”“Chaos in Kabul”“Operation Pineapple: Deadline”“Afghan Bombing” Operation Pineapple Continues” “Punching Above Your Weight”Operation Pineapple Express: https://operationpineappleexpress.com/Operation Pineapple Express Relief:  https://operelief.orgOwn Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ

This week on the 'OPE: Three Years Later' series, Scott was given special the opportunity to sit down with another individual who has been doing incredible work since the US abandonment of Afghanistan, and is currently on the ground there continuing aid - Legend. Legend is an Afghan-American who came to the United States just a few days before the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. He later served in the United States military and has since retired. Legend founded the Legend Group Foundation in September of 2021 following the withdrawal from Afghanistan in August of 2021. Join Scott and Legend to listen in on a very personal view of the Afghanistan abandonment and learn what Legend believes needs to be done to help our Afghan Allies, all as we remember the lives lost because of and since the tragic events of 9/11 that began it all.CONTEXT ON THIS SERIESIn August of 2021, the United States Government officially withdrew from Afghanistan leaving hundreds of thousands of at-risk Afghans vulnerable to Taliban brutality. Immediately, the impact of this moral injury was apparent on out Afghan allies and veteran populations with many of them left behind to deal with the aftermath that no one was coming.Scott and a team of combat veterans began to leverage their network of relationships to provide safe passage and ultimately relocation of hundreds of at-risk Afghans. Scott now has the opportunity to share the story of those Afghan Allies who made it out and of those who are still fighting their way to safety today, alongside many of the extraordinary men and women who made this possible. In this podcast series, Scott sits down with some of the members of Pineapple Express to share their stories and reflect on where we are one year later after the collapse of Afghanistan. PREVIOUS EPISODES ON AFGHANISTAN:“Finding Meaning in the Madness of War”“Saving Space Monkey: Storytelling in Real Time”“Chaos in Kabul”“Operation Pineapple: Deadline”“Afghan Bombing” Operation Pineapple Continues”“Punching Above Your Weight”Operation Pineapple Express: https://operationpineappleexpress.com/Operation Pineapple Express Relief:  https://operelief.org ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLegend Group: https://www.legend.ngo/Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ