In this episode, Bryan Stern, CEO of Grey Bull Rescue, shares his unique journey from a non-military background to becoming a key player in military intelligence and humanitarian rescue operations. He discusses the qualities necessary for success in counterintelligence, the challenges faced during crisis situations, and the innovative approaches taken by Grey Bull Rescue to save lives in dangerous environments. Bryan also reflects on the implications of military leadership decisions, the impact of the Afghanistan withdrawal, and the importance of purpose in preventing veteran suicide. In this conversation, Bryan Stern discusses his transition from military service to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of purpose and the moral imperative to help others. He shares insights into the culture of Grey Bull Rescue, a humanitarian organization he leads, and the ethos that drives his team to act in crisis situations. The discussion covers the emotional impact of events like the Afghanistan withdrawal, the significance of planning and adaptability, and the art of negotiation in hostile environments. Stern highlights the value of building relationships across cultural divides and finding common ground in conflict, ultimately underscoring the resilience and perseverance required in their line of work.

Takeaways

Bryan Stern's background is non-traditional for military service.

He emphasizes the importance of trust in low-trust environments.

Counterintelligence requires a suspicious mindset and the ability to read people.

Grey Bull Rescue operates in the gray area between government and private sector.

Leadership decisions can have profound impacts on military operations.

The Afghanistan withdrawal highlighted failures in planning and execution.

Veteran suicide is a critical issue that needs addressing through purpose-driven work.

Grey Bull has rescued thousands of lives in various crisis situations.

The organization prioritizes operational effectiveness over bureaucratic constraints.

Diversity within Grey Bull reflects the broader American society. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging.

The culture of Grey Bull Rescue is built on camaraderie and purpose.

Taking an oath as a veteran has lifelong implications.

Moral duty drives individuals to act in crisis situations.

Building relationships is key in hostile environments.

Planning and adaptability are crucial in crisis management.

Finding common ground can facilitate negotiations.

Resilience is essential in the face of adversity.

Emotional responses to events like the Afghanistan withdrawal are complex.

The ethos of Grey Bull Rescue emphasizes humanitarian efforts over politics.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brian Stern and His Background

02:29 Military Journey and Transition to Intelligence

04:52 Qualities of a Counter Intelligence Agent

07:11 The Contrarian Mindset and Street Smarts

09:59 The Ethics of Intelligence Work

12:34 The Freedom of Nonprofit Operations

15:07 Challenges in Military Operations and Oversight

17:48 Innovative Rescue Operations in Crisis Situations

20:18 Reflections on the Afghanistan Withdrawal

22:51 Leadership and Accountability in Military Decisions

25:24 The Aftermath of the Afghanistan Withdrawal

27:47 The Impact of Perception on Military Operations

36:03 The Symbolism of Dates and Events

37:41 The Mission of Grey Bull Rescue

41:43 Operational Excellence and Unique Approach

46:17 Diversity and Unity in Service

49:38 Purpose Beyond Politics

53:42 The Oath and Its Continuation

58:04 The Ethos of Grey Bull Rescue

01:05:00 Luck, Skill, and Planning for Success

01:08:42 Exploiting Vulnerabilities: The Art of Strategy

01:12:23 Patience and Persistence: Keys to Success

01:14:07 Compassion in Conflict: Building Relationships

01:22:08 Finding Common Ground: The Power of Agreement

01:25:04 Overcoming Obstacles: The Value of Resilience

01:33:59 Future Aspirations: Building a Support Network