SOFspot Sat, 04 Jul 2026 16:10:11 -0400 http://gsof.org en-us © 2026 SOFspot yes Support this Podcast b0c5cb9b-a1f0-57e3-bc9b-b211bf885a29 Global SOF Foundation episodic false The Global Special Operations Forces (SOF) Foundation is a non-profit focused on building a global SOF community-- and SOFspot is our podcast! Join GSOF VP of Marketing Chelsea Hamashin, with President Stu Bradin, COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew, and the team as we talk to SOF legends, discuss relevant technologies, and look at the ever-changing battlefield. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Special Operations, SOF, SF, SEAL, Military, Defense, GSF, Global SOF, International, Global SOF Foundation https://storage.buzzsprout.com/czn1nodh4t99kzghgzzuttx8tt7a?.jpg SOFspot http://gsof.org SOF & Leadership with ADM (Ret) McRaven SOF & Leadership with ADM (Ret) McRaven We are honored to feature ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven in SOFspot Episode #70. He pulls from his legendary SOF career to share his views of leadership, the future of SOF, and the importance of international partnerships. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the greats!

ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven's Books:

https://www.amazon.com/stores/William-H.-McRaven/author/B000APSSE0?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Upcoming GSOF Events:

https://gsof.org/global-sof-events-listing/


Support the show

]]> We are honored to feature ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven in SOFspot Episode #70. He pulls from his legendary SOF career to share his views of leadership, the future of SOF, and the importance of international partnerships. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the greats!

ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven's Books:

https://www.amazon.com/stores/William-H.-McRaven/author/B000APSSE0?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Upcoming GSOF Events:

https://gsof.org/global-sof-events-listing/


Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-14174594 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0500 2762 70 full false More Reality Than Fiction More Reality Than Fiction Chelsea sat down with Colonel (R) Jeffrey H. Fischer, a successful author of thrillers and an experienced journalist in international security with a 30-year military career. His service includes seven combat tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Balkans, and he's taken inspiration and experiences from those deployments for his Curt Nover military fiction thriller series. He and his wife have also started a non-profit in Vienna called "Shelter2Service," training shelter dogs to support military Veterans living in Europe. 

They discuss all of that and more in this episode of SOFspot.

Buy Jeff Fischer's Books:
https://www.jeffreyhfischer.com/novels

Highlighted GSOF Events:

- GSOF Symposium Europe, 24-26 OCT, Brno Czech Republic
https://www.gsofeurope.org/

- Modern Warfare Week, 13-16 NOV, Fayetteville, NC
https://mww.gsofsymposium.org/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea sat down with Colonel (R) Jeffrey H. Fischer, a successful author of thrillers and an experienced journalist in international security with a 30-year military career. His service includes seven combat tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Balkans, and he's taken inspiration and experiences from those deployments for his Curt Nover military fiction thriller series. He and his wife have also started a non-profit in Vienna called "Shelter2Service," training shelter dogs to support military Veterans living in Europe. 

They discuss all of that and more in this episode of SOFspot.

Buy Jeff Fischer's Books:
https://www.jeffreyhfischer.com/novels

Highlighted GSOF Events:

- GSOF Symposium Europe, 24-26 OCT, Brno Czech Republic
https://www.gsofeurope.org/

- Modern Warfare Week, 13-16 NOV, Fayetteville, NC
https://mww.gsofsymposium.org/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-13811642 Thu, 19 Oct 2023 17:00:00 -0400 2112 69 full false What We've Been Up To What We've Been Up To The Global SOF Team is BACK in your pod-feed! After a year-long hiatus from SOFspot, we're returning with all new episodes. A lot has happened for Global SOF since Summer '22, so Stu, Meaghan, Chelsea, and Jenn got together to discuss just what HAS happened over the course of the past year. 

From SOF Week to growing the team to policy education, we hit on everything you should know as members of the Global SOF community.

As always, you can learn more about the Foundation at www.gsof.org.


Support the show

]]> The Global SOF Team is BACK in your pod-feed! After a year-long hiatus from SOFspot, we're returning with all new episodes. A lot has happened for Global SOF since Summer '22, so Stu, Meaghan, Chelsea, and Jenn got together to discuss just what HAS happened over the course of the past year. 

From SOF Week to growing the team to policy education, we hit on everything you should know as members of the Global SOF community.

As always, you can learn more about the Foundation at www.gsof.org.


Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-13811594 Thu, 19 Oct 2023 17:00:00 -0400 2783 68 full false Project Tadpole Project Tadpole In this episode, we discuss military family building and fertility issues. While we DO talk about freezing sperm samples, more importantly we discuss the breadth of the family planning issue in the SOF community, how it's impacting retention, and what policy changes Congress needs to make to support our Special Ops families. 

Our experts today come from the Military Family Building Coalition and Legacy:

  • Ellen Gustafson, MFBC Co-Founder
  • Katy Bell Hendrickson, MFBC Co-Founder
  • John Crowley, Legacy Military Affairs

Listen to hear from these three experts about this issue and why it's so important that we support their efforts to change US policy on military fertility options.

--------

Military Family Building Coalition
https://www.militaryfamilybuilding.org

Legacy
https://www.givelegacy.com/military/
https://www.givelegacy.com/nsw/

Blue Star Family Survey Results
https://bluestarfam.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/BSF_MFLS_Results2021_Family-Building_03_10.pdf

EVENT - GSOF Symposium Europe
https://www.gsofeurope.org

EVENT - Modern Warfare Week
https://mww.gsofsymposium.org

Global SOF Partner Highlight - CAE USA
http://cae.com

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we discuss military family building and fertility issues. While we DO talk about freezing sperm samples, more importantly we discuss the breadth of the family planning issue in the SOF community, how it's impacting retention, and what policy changes Congress needs to make to support our Special Ops families. 

Our experts today come from the Military Family Building Coalition and Legacy:

  • Ellen Gustafson, MFBC Co-Founder
  • Katy Bell Hendrickson, MFBC Co-Founder
  • John Crowley, Legacy Military Affairs

Listen to hear from these three experts about this issue and why it's so important that we support their efforts to change US policy on military fertility options.

--------

Military Family Building Coalition
https://www.militaryfamilybuilding.org

Legacy
https://www.givelegacy.com/military/
https://www.givelegacy.com/nsw/

Blue Star Family Survey Results
https://bluestarfam.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/BSF_MFLS_Results2021_Family-Building_03_10.pdf

EVENT - GSOF Symposium Europe
https://www.gsofeurope.org

EVENT - Modern Warfare Week
https://mww.gsofsymposium.org

Global SOF Partner Highlight - CAE USA
http://cae.com

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10771124 Fri, 10 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0400 2867 67 full false First Casualty First Casualty In this episode of SOFspot, GSOF President and CEO Stu Bradin talks to Toby Harnden, an author and journalist who was awarded the Orwell Prize for Books in 2012.He also wrote "First Casualty: The Untold Story of the CIA Mission to Avenge 9/11," which was published in Sept 2021 and tells the story of Team Alpha, an "eclectic band of linguists, tribal experts, and elite warriors who were the first Americans to operate inside Taliban territory after 9/11."

Listen on to hear about what inspired Toby to write the book, how he got to know the team, and what it took to get the interviews and details that tell this important story.

Buy the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/First-Casualty-Untold-Mission-Avenge/dp/0316540951/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

GSOF Partner Highlight: Kymeta Corp.:
https://www.kymetacorp.com

Register for the SOF Imperatives Forum:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=04ba9634-1647-ec11-a3ee-0003ff66d8d0

Support the show

]]> In this episode of SOFspot, GSOF President and CEO Stu Bradin talks to Toby Harnden, an author and journalist who was awarded the Orwell Prize for Books in 2012.He also wrote "First Casualty: The Untold Story of the CIA Mission to Avenge 9/11," which was published in Sept 2021 and tells the story of Team Alpha, an "eclectic band of linguists, tribal experts, and elite warriors who were the first Americans to operate inside Taliban territory after 9/11."

Listen on to hear about what inspired Toby to write the book, how he got to know the team, and what it took to get the interviews and details that tell this important story.

Buy the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/First-Casualty-Untold-Mission-Avenge/dp/0316540951/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

GSOF Partner Highlight: Kymeta Corp.:
https://www.kymetacorp.com

Register for the SOF Imperatives Forum:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=04ba9634-1647-ec11-a3ee-0003ff66d8d0

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10617609 Sat, 14 May 2022 17:00:00 -0400 2897 66 full false UKRAINE - Sasha II UKRAINE - Sasha II In this episode, we continue our series of interviews with experts in Ukraine. Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, who we also interviewed in Episode 61, is back to give more updates on the war in Ukraine, what he thinks it will take to end the war, and the extreme actions he expects the Russians to take against his nation.

Learn more about our Sustaining Partner, Peraton:
https://www.peraton.com

See our Global SOF Ukraine Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/

Register for Upcoming Global SOF Events:
http://gsof.org/events

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we continue our series of interviews with experts in Ukraine. Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, who we also interviewed in Episode 61, is back to give more updates on the war in Ukraine, what he thinks it will take to end the war, and the extreme actions he expects the Russians to take against his nation.

Learn more about our Sustaining Partner, Peraton:
https://www.peraton.com

See our Global SOF Ukraine Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/

Register for Upcoming Global SOF Events:
http://gsof.org/events

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10460494 Mon, 18 Apr 2022 16:00:00 -0400 2541 65 full false From Warsaw with Love From Warsaw with Love In this episode, Stu chats with author John Pomfrets and COL (Ret) Fred Hart about the actions and inspiration behind "From Warsaw with Love," Pomfrets' latest book. COL (Ret) Hart was part of a daring mission in which Polish SOF rescued him and 5 other Americans from Iraq in 1990. Pomfrets tells the story, along with many more that set the scene on the relationship between the US and Poland.

Listen on to hear some of the story, and get your copy of "From Warsaw With Love" to read the rest...

Buy the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Warsaw-Love-Forging-Unlikely-Alliance/dp/1250296056

Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://news.northropgrumman.com

Global SOF Events:
https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-events

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Stu chats with author John Pomfrets and COL (Ret) Fred Hart about the actions and inspiration behind "From Warsaw with Love," Pomfrets' latest book. COL (Ret) Hart was part of a daring mission in which Polish SOF rescued him and 5 other Americans from Iraq in 1990. Pomfrets tells the story, along with many more that set the scene on the relationship between the US and Poland.

Listen on to hear some of the story, and get your copy of "From Warsaw With Love" to read the rest...

Buy the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Warsaw-Love-Forging-Unlikely-Alliance/dp/1250296056

Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://news.northropgrumman.com

Global SOF Events:
https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-events

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10421311 Mon, 11 Apr 2022 21:00:00 -0400 2982 full false UKRAINE - Repass UKRAINE - Repass In this interview, which we recorded on March 17th, we speak with MG (Ret) Mike Repass. He's the former commander of Special Operations Command - Europe, and he's also on our Global SOF Advisory Council.

Our CEO and President Stu Bradin spoke with him to get details on some of the lesser-known stories behind the war in Ukraine. 

They discuss the high-value natural resources that exist in Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis that is building with Ukrainian refugees, and how he sees the war unfolding.

Listen for our conversation with MG Retired Mike Repass.

-------

Global SOF Ukraine Info Sharing Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Cisco
https://www.cisco.com

Support the show

]]> In this interview, which we recorded on March 17th, we speak with MG (Ret) Mike Repass. He's the former commander of Special Operations Command - Europe, and he's also on our Global SOF Advisory Council.

Our CEO and President Stu Bradin spoke with him to get details on some of the lesser-known stories behind the war in Ukraine. 

They discuss the high-value natural resources that exist in Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis that is building with Ukrainian refugees, and how he sees the war unfolding.

Listen for our conversation with MG Retired Mike Repass.

-------

Global SOF Ukraine Info Sharing Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Cisco
https://www.cisco.com

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10304612 Wed, 23 Mar 2022 13:00:00 -0400 2033 633 full false UKRAINE - Terras UKRAINE - Terras As the war in Ukraine continues, our Global SOF team is adding interviews with regional experts to our podcast schedule, including today's guest: GEN Riho Terras.

GEN Terras is the former Chief of Defense for Estonia and is currently a Member of European Parliament. He spoke to Chelsea about the current state of the war, why the Russian approach is failing, and what the US and other Partner Nations can do to provide the needed support to stop Vladmir Putin.

Corporate Partner Highlight: Maxar
http://maxar.com

Global SOF Ukraine Info Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/ 

Support the show

]]> As the war in Ukraine continues, our Global SOF team is adding interviews with regional experts to our podcast schedule, including today's guest: GEN Riho Terras.

GEN Terras is the former Chief of Defense for Estonia and is currently a Member of European Parliament. He spoke to Chelsea about the current state of the war, why the Russian approach is failing, and what the US and other Partner Nations can do to provide the needed support to stop Vladmir Putin.

Corporate Partner Highlight: Maxar
http://maxar.com

Global SOF Ukraine Info Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/ 

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10267543 Thu, 17 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0400 1625 62 full false UKRAINE - Sasha UKRAINE - Sasha Due to current events, SOFspot will feature periodic interviews with subject matter experts on the War in Ukraine. Today's guest was Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, chairman of the Ukrainian Center for Defense reforms and a member of Ukrainian government inter-agency platform for countering hybrid threats.

In this discussion, we talk about the will of the people of Ukraine, past and present tactics of the Russian Military, and the behavior of Vladimir Putin.

Corporate Partner Highlight - CACI:
https://www.caci.com

Support the show

]]> Due to current events, SOFspot will feature periodic interviews with subject matter experts on the War in Ukraine. Today's guest was Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, chairman of the Ukrainian Center for Defense reforms and a member of Ukrainian government inter-agency platform for countering hybrid threats.

In this discussion, we talk about the will of the people of Ukraine, past and present tactics of the Russian Military, and the behavior of Vladimir Putin.

Corporate Partner Highlight - CACI:
https://www.caci.com

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10256732 Tue, 15 Mar 2022 18:00:00 -0400 2216 61 full true Three Dangerous Men Three Dangerous Men It's our first REPEAT guest! Stu sat down with Dr. Seth Jones (also featured in Ep. 42) to discuss his latest book: "Three Dangerous Men: Russia, China, Iran and the Rise of Irregular Warfare." 

Seth talks about how the US is woefully unprepared for the future of global competition, and the threats presented by Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov; the deceased Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani; and vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission Zhang Youxia.

Who does he think is the most dangerous? You'll have to listen to find out!

Buy "Three Dangreous Men":
https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324006206

See Seth Live at the Special Air Warfare Symposium, 22-24 FEB:
https://saws.gsofsymposium.org

Partner Highlight: BRINC Drones
http://brincdrones.com

Support the show

]]> It's our first REPEAT guest! Stu sat down with Dr. Seth Jones (also featured in Ep. 42) to discuss his latest book: "Three Dangerous Men: Russia, China, Iran and the Rise of Irregular Warfare." 

Seth talks about how the US is woefully unprepared for the future of global competition, and the threats presented by Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov; the deceased Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani; and vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission Zhang Youxia.

Who does he think is the most dangerous? You'll have to listen to find out!

Buy "Three Dangreous Men":
https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324006206

See Seth Live at the Special Air Warfare Symposium, 22-24 FEB:
https://saws.gsofsymposium.org

Partner Highlight: BRINC Drones
http://brincdrones.com

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-10105313 Sat, 19 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0500 2930 60 full false We're All Baby Starfish We're All Baby Starfish We sat down with members of the Special Ops Survivors to talk about their organization, its mission, and the way they support the SOF Community. As an organization that supports the spouses of fallen special operators, they play a critical role in the lifelong service of SOF. 

Our guests were:

  • LTC (Ret) Rob Neitzel, Vice Chairman of Special Ops Survivors
  • Erik Krame, Executive Director of Special Ops Survivors
  • Jackie Syverson, a Special Ops Survivor Spouse

We were honored to have them with us to talk about the importance of connection to the SOF community, Special Ops Survivors Programs, and how you can help support their mission.

Special Ops Survivors:
https://www.specialopssurvivors.org

World Wide Technology - Partner Highlight:
https://www.wwt.com

Support the show

]]> We sat down with members of the Special Ops Survivors to talk about their organization, its mission, and the way they support the SOF Community. As an organization that supports the spouses of fallen special operators, they play a critical role in the lifelong service of SOF. 

Our guests were:

  • LTC (Ret) Rob Neitzel, Vice Chairman of Special Ops Survivors
  • Erik Krame, Executive Director of Special Ops Survivors
  • Jackie Syverson, a Special Ops Survivor Spouse

We were honored to have them with us to talk about the importance of connection to the SOF community, Special Ops Survivors Programs, and how you can help support their mission.

Special Ops Survivors:
https://www.specialopssurvivors.org

World Wide Technology - Partner Highlight:
https://www.wwt.com

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-9888628 Fri, 14 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0500 1958 59 full false The Body As A System The Body As A System Chelsea sat down with three men who have different experiences and perspectives with mental and physical health in the special operations community. She spoke to:

  • COL Mark Ray,  Director of USASOC's Human Performance and Wellness program
  • Dr. Phil Wagner, the Founder and CEO of Sparta Science
  • Phil Gant, recently separated Special Forces and Director of Programs– Ft. Bragg for The Honor Foundation.

We talk about how the body needs to be treated as a system, what makes a special operator both physically and mentally, and what people can do to reduce physical or mental health issues.

Additional Resources:

Support the show

]]> Chelsea sat down with three men who have different experiences and perspectives with mental and physical health in the special operations community. She spoke to:

  • COL Mark Ray,  Director of USASOC's Human Performance and Wellness program
  • Dr. Phil Wagner, the Founder and CEO of Sparta Science
  • Phil Gant, recently separated Special Forces and Director of Programs– Ft. Bragg for The Honor Foundation.

We talk about how the body needs to be treated as a system, what makes a special operator both physically and mentally, and what people can do to reduce physical or mental health issues.

Additional Resources:

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-9758390 Mon, 20 Dec 2021 21:00:00 -0500 3064 58 full false SOF Team Room Preview SOF Team Room Preview Join KaLea Lehman of the Military Special Operations Family Collaborative for a preview of some of the discussions and topics we have planned for our first virtual "SOF Team Room." She speaks with three of the event's speakers about SOF Legacy, relationships, and the future.

  • Dr. Preston Cline
  • Dr. Chris Frueh
  • CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb

Register for this FREE virtual event here:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=8de575d1-ee23-ec11-b76a-0003fff84a36

Read "Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging" (Referenced Book):
https://www.amazon.com/Tribe-Homecoming-Belonging-Sebastian-Junger/dp/1455566381

Check out our Highlighted Partner, EY:
www.ey.com/en_us/government-public-sector

Support the show

]]> Join KaLea Lehman of the Military Special Operations Family Collaborative for a preview of some of the discussions and topics we have planned for our first virtual "SOF Team Room." She speaks with three of the event's speakers about SOF Legacy, relationships, and the future.

  • Dr. Preston Cline
  • Dr. Chris Frueh
  • CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb

Register for this FREE virtual event here:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=8de575d1-ee23-ec11-b76a-0003fff84a36

Read "Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging" (Referenced Book):
https://www.amazon.com/Tribe-Homecoming-Belonging-Sebastian-Junger/dp/1455566381

Check out our Highlighted Partner, EY:
www.ey.com/en_us/government-public-sector

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-9405518 Wed, 20 Oct 2021 21:00:00 -0400 2778 57 full true The Birth of MARSOC The Birth of MARSOC Three men who were heavily involved in the birth of MARSOC share their views on the Command's founding: 

  • Major General (Ret) Mark "Droopy" Clark: Served two tours with USSOCOM and Commanded MARSOC from 2012 to 2014 
  • General (Ret) Bryan "Doug" Brown: USSOCOM Commander from 2003 to 2007 
  • Lieutenant General (Ret) Dennis J. Hejlik: The first Commander of Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) from 2006 to 2008

See the Video of the Story with Additional Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zedkXxdoSPg

Check out our Corporate Partner Highlight - ML Horizons:
http://www.mlhorizons.com/

Support the show

]]> Three men who were heavily involved in the birth of MARSOC share their views on the Command's founding: 

  • Major General (Ret) Mark "Droopy" Clark: Served two tours with USSOCOM and Commanded MARSOC from 2012 to 2014 
  • General (Ret) Bryan "Doug" Brown: USSOCOM Commander from 2003 to 2007 
  • Lieutenant General (Ret) Dennis J. Hejlik: The first Commander of Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) from 2006 to 2008

See the Video of the Story with Additional Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zedkXxdoSPg

Check out our Corporate Partner Highlight - ML Horizons:
http://www.mlhorizons.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-9190444 Mon, 13 Sep 2021 21:00:00 -0400 2801 56 full false Homage to Spain's Green Berets Homage to Spain's Green Berets Today's episode features our President and CEO, Stu Bradin and MG (Ret.) Jaime Íñiguez Andrade (with brief cameos from Chelsea and Rick). MG Iñiguez was the first commander of Spain's Joint Special Operations Command. He joined us to talk about his personal history in Special Operations, as well as the growth and establishment of Spanish SOF. He's even written a book about the subject.

Buy MG (Ret.) Iniguez's Book:
https://www.eljardindeloscuriosos.com/libro/1273/las-acciones-no-(todas)-contadas-de-las-unidades-de-operaciones-especiales-espanolas/

Corporate Partner Spotlight - Cellebrite:
https://www.cellebrite.com/en/home/

Support the show

]]> Today's episode features our President and CEO, Stu Bradin and MG (Ret.) Jaime Íñiguez Andrade (with brief cameos from Chelsea and Rick). MG Iñiguez was the first commander of Spain's Joint Special Operations Command. He joined us to talk about his personal history in Special Operations, as well as the growth and establishment of Spanish SOF. He's even written a book about the subject.

Buy MG (Ret.) Iniguez's Book:
https://www.eljardindeloscuriosos.com/libro/1273/las-acciones-no-(todas)-contadas-de-las-unidades-de-operaciones-especiales-espanolas/

Corporate Partner Spotlight - Cellebrite:
https://www.cellebrite.com/en/home/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-8969413 Tue, 03 Aug 2021 14:00:00 -0400 2403 55 full false JTF-510 in The Philippines JTF-510 in The Philippines This Episode comes from our "SOF Story: Live!" on Joint Task Force (JTF) 510 in The Philippines during Operation Enduring Freedom - Philippines (OEF-P). It brings together four men who were there in the early 2000s as they discuss their experiences in the island nation. You'll hear from:

  • LTG Retired Donald Wurster
  • LTG Retired David Fridovich
  • CWO 3 (Ret.) Donald Sikorski, and
  • SGM (Ret.) Mike Bosco

For more content, watch the Full Video Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j5v6C_PaDs

Corporate Partner Highlight, ELTA North America:
https://www.eltanorthamerica.com/

Support the show

]]> This Episode comes from our "SOF Story: Live!" on Joint Task Force (JTF) 510 in The Philippines during Operation Enduring Freedom - Philippines (OEF-P). It brings together four men who were there in the early 2000s as they discuss their experiences in the island nation. You'll hear from:

  • LTG Retired Donald Wurster
  • LTG Retired David Fridovich
  • CWO 3 (Ret.) Donald Sikorski, and
  • SGM (Ret.) Mike Bosco

For more content, watch the Full Video Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j5v6C_PaDs

Corporate Partner Highlight, ELTA North America:
https://www.eltanorthamerica.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-8852856 Mon, 12 Jul 2021 18:00:00 -0400 2975 54 full false The Story of the Soldiers The Story of the Soldiers Stu and Chelsea speak with journalist and author Jessica Donati about her new book, "Eagle Down: The Last Special Forces Fighting the Forever War." We talk about how she got to Afghanistan, what moments there impacted her the most, and what led her to write the book. She talks about the impact of the war on the soldiers (and their families) and what she sees for the future of Afghanistan.

Get her book wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or your local bookstore!

----

Register for the GSOF 7th Anniversary Reception, 17 MAY in Tampa:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=bc093dd2-fac6-4a48-9eaf-58a9a7d47c79

Corporate Partner Highlight: Wickr:
https://wickr.com/

Support the show

]]> Stu and Chelsea speak with journalist and author Jessica Donati about her new book, "Eagle Down: The Last Special Forces Fighting the Forever War." We talk about how she got to Afghanistan, what moments there impacted her the most, and what led her to write the book. She talks about the impact of the war on the soldiers (and their families) and what she sees for the future of Afghanistan.

Get her book wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or your local bookstore!

----

Register for the GSOF 7th Anniversary Reception, 17 MAY in Tampa:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=bc093dd2-fac6-4a48-9eaf-58a9a7d47c79

Corporate Partner Highlight: Wickr:
https://wickr.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-8411217 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0400 2815 53 full false JUST CAUSE + Slate 46 JUST CAUSE + Slate 46 In episode 52 of SOFspot, we share excerpts from two of our recent "SOF Stories: Live!" 

In the first half we listen in on Operators who participated in Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama in 1989/1990. They talk about the roles they played in the mission and some of their favorite memories.

Like what you hear? The full story is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kylz1E2yuQ

In the second half we jump in on our SOF Story about the Rescue of Slate 46, one of the most famous rescue missions of Operation DESERT STORM. Listen in as the Air Force operators discuss their memories of that rescue mission in Iraq.

Want to hear the rest? The full story is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jW52m7gRt8Y
-------
Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://wickr.com/

Support the show

]]> In episode 52 of SOFspot, we share excerpts from two of our recent "SOF Stories: Live!" 

In the first half we listen in on Operators who participated in Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama in 1989/1990. They talk about the roles they played in the mission and some of their favorite memories.

Like what you hear? The full story is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kylz1E2yuQ

In the second half we jump in on our SOF Story about the Rescue of Slate 46, one of the most famous rescue missions of Operation DESERT STORM. Listen in as the Air Force operators discuss their memories of that rescue mission in Iraq.

Want to hear the rest? The full story is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jW52m7gRt8Y
-------
Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://wickr.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-8333628 Wed, 14 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400 2505 52 full false 2021 Frogman Swim 2021 Frogman Swim The Frogman Swim is an annual 3+ mile swim across Tampa Bay that takes place every January to raise money for our friends at The Navy SEAL Foundation. This year our own Chelsea Hamashin swam it herself, assigned in honor of SOC (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, so she shares her experience and talks to several folks involved with the swim:

- Chris Irwin, Director of Communications at The Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF)
- Kurt Ott, NSF Ambassador and Director of the Frogman Swim
- Glenn Paige, NSF Ambassador and Board Member, Frogman Swimmer

And her dad, Lloyd Hamashin, even makes a brief cameo!

Link to Donate to Chelsea's Swim for NSF:
https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/2021-tampa-bay-frogman-swim/chelseahamashin

More on the Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/donate/

Global SOF Event: GSOF Symposium - US:
https://us.gsofsymposium.org/Homepage

Global SOF Imperatives for 2021:
https://gsofimperatives.org/

Fundraiser for The Honor Foundation:
https://www.classy.org/event/thf-or-the-next-course/e317671

Support the show

]]> The Frogman Swim is an annual 3+ mile swim across Tampa Bay that takes place every January to raise money for our friends at The Navy SEAL Foundation. This year our own Chelsea Hamashin swam it herself, assigned in honor of SOC (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, so she shares her experience and talks to several folks involved with the swim:

- Chris Irwin, Director of Communications at The Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF)
- Kurt Ott, NSF Ambassador and Director of the Frogman Swim
- Glenn Paige, NSF Ambassador and Board Member, Frogman Swimmer

And her dad, Lloyd Hamashin, even makes a brief cameo!

Link to Donate to Chelsea's Swim for NSF:
https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/2021-tampa-bay-frogman-swim/chelseahamashin

More on the Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/donate/

Global SOF Event: GSOF Symposium - US:
https://us.gsofsymposium.org/Homepage

Global SOF Imperatives for 2021:
https://gsofimperatives.org/

Fundraiser for The Honor Foundation:
https://www.classy.org/event/thf-or-the-next-course/e317671

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-7809505 Thu, 11 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0500 2421 51 full false In Somebody's Bullseye In Somebody's Bullseye Stu interviews COL (Ret) Keith Nightingale, former Army special operator and author of "Phoenix Rising: From the Ashes of Desert One to the Rebirth of U.S. Special Operations." He candidly talks about mistakes made at Operation EAGLE CLAW and the Invasion of Grenada, the formation of US Special Operations Command, and what he thinks the role of the ASD SO/LIC should be. 

If you like what you hear, you can get COL Nightingale's book on Amazon or your local bookstore:
https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Rising-Hostage-Rebirth-Operations/dp/1612008771

Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Global SOF Events:
https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-events

Support the show

]]> Stu interviews COL (Ret) Keith Nightingale, former Army special operator and author of "Phoenix Rising: From the Ashes of Desert One to the Rebirth of U.S. Special Operations." He candidly talks about mistakes made at Operation EAGLE CLAW and the Invasion of Grenada, the formation of US Special Operations Command, and what he thinks the role of the ASD SO/LIC should be. 

If you like what you hear, you can get COL Nightingale's book on Amazon or your local bookstore:
https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Rising-Hostage-Rebirth-Operations/dp/1612008771

Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Global SOF Events:
https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-events

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-6998026 Thu, 24 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500 3154 50 full true Comfortable in the Chaos Comfortable in the Chaos Are you active duty SOF or SOF support and dreading your transition to civilian life? Then this podcast is definitely for you. We talk to three separated (or separatING) operators who discuss their unique paths into post-military life. They are:

  • Blake Moore, Former Air Force, currently at Wickr
  • Edward "Ted" Handler, Former Marine, currently at STIHL
  • Dennis Moore, Retiring SFC U.S. Army Ranger

They talk about knowing when it's time, tools to help you get through the transition, and whether or not Ted can surf!

The Honor Foundation:
https://www.honor.org/

Partner Highlight: Wickr
https://wickr.com/

Partner Highlight: Ntrepid Academy
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Support the show

]]> Are you active duty SOF or SOF support and dreading your transition to civilian life? Then this podcast is definitely for you. We talk to three separated (or separatING) operators who discuss their unique paths into post-military life. They are:

  • Blake Moore, Former Air Force, currently at Wickr
  • Edward "Ted" Handler, Former Marine, currently at STIHL
  • Dennis Moore, Retiring SFC U.S. Army Ranger

They talk about knowing when it's time, tools to help you get through the transition, and whether or not Ted can surf!

The Honor Foundation:
https://www.honor.org/

Partner Highlight: Wickr
https://wickr.com/

Partner Highlight: Ntrepid Academy
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-6731035 Mon, 07 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500 2801 49 full false 5 Airmen & 3 Marines 5 Airmen & 3 Marines In this episode of the podcast we share our November 2020 "SOF Story: Live!" on Operation EAGLE CLAW. It features CSM (RET) Rick Lamb and CMSgt (RET) Taco Sanchez, both of whom were involved in EAGLE CLAW and it's follow-on Operation HONEY BADGER.

They discuss prepping for the mission, the many challenges that it presented, and why it's important to keep the skills of Special Operations honed. Plus how they work to honor the five Airmen and 3 Marines who were killed on April 25, 1980.

Recommended Reading:
- Victory on the Potomac by James Locher
- Phoenix Rising by Keith Nightingale

Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid:
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Support the show

]]> In this episode of the podcast we share our November 2020 "SOF Story: Live!" on Operation EAGLE CLAW. It features CSM (RET) Rick Lamb and CMSgt (RET) Taco Sanchez, both of whom were involved in EAGLE CLAW and it's follow-on Operation HONEY BADGER.

They discuss prepping for the mission, the many challenges that it presented, and why it's important to keep the skills of Special Operations honed. Plus how they work to honor the five Airmen and 3 Marines who were killed on April 25, 1980.

Recommended Reading:
- Victory on the Potomac by James Locher
- Phoenix Rising by Keith Nightingale

Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid:
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-6445327 Wed, 18 Nov 2020 17:00:00 -0500 2528 48 full false Task Force Ranger Task Force Ranger This episode of SOFspot is an excerpt from our SOF Story: Live event on Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu in October 1993, which was made famous by the book and movie, Black Hawk Down. In this episode, we highlight four men who were really there, and their personal recollections from that day and night.

Our speakers are:
- CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb
- MAJ (Ret) Mike Moser
- SGM (Ret) Bart Wiggins
- MSG (Ret) Mark Stephens

We're honored to have them all with us to share their perspectives, the stories behind their injuries, and the impact that the losses of the day have had on their lives. 

Watch Full Episodes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0iFK6ZpwQ4

Partner Highlight: CTL-Systemware:
https://www.ctl-systemware.com/

Support the show

]]> This episode of SOFspot is an excerpt from our SOF Story: Live event on Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu in October 1993, which was made famous by the book and movie, Black Hawk Down. In this episode, we highlight four men who were really there, and their personal recollections from that day and night.

Our speakers are:
- CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb
- MAJ (Ret) Mike Moser
- SGM (Ret) Bart Wiggins
- MSG (Ret) Mark Stephens

We're honored to have them all with us to share their perspectives, the stories behind their injuries, and the impact that the losses of the day have had on their lives. 

Watch Full Episodes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0iFK6ZpwQ4

Partner Highlight: CTL-Systemware:
https://www.ctl-systemware.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-6238435 Thu, 05 Nov 2020 15:00:00 -0500 3192 47 full false The Army of the Party The Army of the Party Chelsea and Stu met with Dennis Blasko, a "walking encyclopedia"" on the Chinese Military. Dennis has studied the Chinese language, military, and people since the 1970s through roles with the U.S. Army, traditional schooling, and years of in-country experiences. 

In this episode we talk about what you can learn from consuming Chinese news media (even if it is propaganda), how their conscription process works, and how China is using more than it's military in the Great Power Competition. Plus–can Stu break a brick over his head??

Links to Chinese Sources:
- http://english.chinamil.com.cn (English)
- http://81.cn (Chinese)

Corporate Partner Highlight: Contingent Global
https://www.contingentglobal.com

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Stu met with Dennis Blasko, a "walking encyclopedia"" on the Chinese Military. Dennis has studied the Chinese language, military, and people since the 1970s through roles with the U.S. Army, traditional schooling, and years of in-country experiences. 

In this episode we talk about what you can learn from consuming Chinese news media (even if it is propaganda), how their conscription process works, and how China is using more than it's military in the Great Power Competition. Plus–can Stu break a brick over his head??

Links to Chinese Sources:
- http://english.chinamil.com.cn (English)
- http://81.cn (Chinese)

Corporate Partner Highlight: Contingent Global
https://www.contingentglobal.com

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-6147847 Fri, 30 Oct 2020 15:00:00 -0400 3096 46 full false Explosion of Data Explosion of Data In episode 45 we talk about Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI & ML) with three experts on the subject:

- Brian Raymond at Primer.ai
- Tim Kelton at Descartes Labs
- Abe Usher at Black Cape

We talk about how the DoD is handling this "explosion of data," what capabilities they're most excited about developing in the future, and how they see the DoD workforce being trained in these areas. And of course: the impact of COVID19.

Visit the National Security Commission on AI:
https://www.nscai.gov/home

Corporate Partner Highlight: TACG Solutions:
https://www.tacgsolutions.com/

Support the show

]]> In episode 45 we talk about Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI & ML) with three experts on the subject:

- Brian Raymond at Primer.ai
- Tim Kelton at Descartes Labs
- Abe Usher at Black Cape

We talk about how the DoD is handling this "explosion of data," what capabilities they're most excited about developing in the future, and how they see the DoD workforce being trained in these areas. And of course: the impact of COVID19.

Visit the National Security Commission on AI:
https://www.nscai.gov/home

Corporate Partner Highlight: TACG Solutions:
https://www.tacgsolutions.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-5708911 Fri, 02 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0400 3164 45 full false The Immediate Aftermath of 9/11 The Immediate Aftermath of 9/11 Global SOF has launched "SOF Stories: Live!" These are monthly events with current and former SOF operators focused on different topics, and as the name implies, they occur LIVE. But we also record them so if you miss the live event, the stories can continue to be shared and spread on our other platforms.

This episode's topic was "The Immediate Aftermath of 9/11," which focused on the chaos after the attacks through several current and former AFSOC operators:
- Col. (Ret) Matthew Atkins
- Maj. Gen. (Ret) Michael Kingsley
- Command CCM Greg Smith
- Moderator: CMSgt (Ret) Randy Anderson

Watch the Event Video:
https://youtu.be/UZeH2hSSmck

Global SOF Partner Highlight: Comtech Systems
https://comtechsystems.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF has launched "SOF Stories: Live!" These are monthly events with current and former SOF operators focused on different topics, and as the name implies, they occur LIVE. But we also record them so if you miss the live event, the stories can continue to be shared and spread on our other platforms.

This episode's topic was "The Immediate Aftermath of 9/11," which focused on the chaos after the attacks through several current and former AFSOC operators:
- Col. (Ret) Matthew Atkins
- Maj. Gen. (Ret) Michael Kingsley
- Command CCM Greg Smith
- Moderator: CMSgt (Ret) Randy Anderson

Watch the Event Video:
https://youtu.be/UZeH2hSSmck

Global SOF Partner Highlight: Comtech Systems
https://comtechsystems.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-5467954 Wed, 16 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0400 3696 44 full false A Critical Gap for SOF A Critical Gap for SOF Chelsea and Stu spoke with Army SF COL (Ret) Bob Wilson, who commanded special operations forces in combat in Afghanistan and in complex missions across Africa, Central Asia, and Latin America. In his final assignment as an Army officer, Bob served in the White House as a director for counterterrorism in the National Security Council.

They discuss being in 7th Group in the 90s, the challenges presented by the austere environments of Africa, and why a light aviation capability like "Armed Overwatch" is important to current and future SOF.

Read COL Wilson's Op/Ed:
https://www.militarytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2020/08/23/armed-overwatch-a-critical-special-operations-forces-requirement/

Ntrepid Academy:
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Crisis Response Company:
https://crisisresponsecompany.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Stu spoke with Army SF COL (Ret) Bob Wilson, who commanded special operations forces in combat in Afghanistan and in complex missions across Africa, Central Asia, and Latin America. In his final assignment as an Army officer, Bob served in the White House as a director for counterterrorism in the National Security Council.

They discuss being in 7th Group in the 90s, the challenges presented by the austere environments of Africa, and why a light aviation capability like "Armed Overwatch" is important to current and future SOF.

Read COL Wilson's Op/Ed:
https://www.militarytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2020/08/23/armed-overwatch-a-critical-special-operations-forces-requirement/

Ntrepid Academy:
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/

Crisis Response Company:
https://crisisresponsecompany.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-5300869 Fri, 04 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0400 2938 43 full false There's Time To Turn This Ship Around There's Time To Turn This Ship Around Chelsea and Global SOF President Stu Bradin talk to Dr. Seth Jones from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about the Great Power Competition with China, Russia, and Iran. 

We discuss the way that the US has taken a more conventional approach to the fight while its adversaries have adapted their strategies to meet the challenges of irregular warfare. Dr. Jones talks about what needs to change for the US to "turn the ship around" and posture itself and its partners to better face the realities of this Great Power Competition. Oh, and of course, we talked about Tik Tok.

Corporate Partner Highlight - Wickr:
https://wickr.com/ram/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Global SOF President Stu Bradin talk to Dr. Seth Jones from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about the Great Power Competition with China, Russia, and Iran. 

We discuss the way that the US has taken a more conventional approach to the fight while its adversaries have adapted their strategies to meet the challenges of irregular warfare. Dr. Jones talks about what needs to change for the US to "turn the ship around" and posture itself and its partners to better face the realities of this Great Power Competition. Oh, and of course, we talked about Tik Tok.

Corporate Partner Highlight - Wickr:
https://wickr.com/ram/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-4769633 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 16:00:00 -0400 2522 42 full false The Guys Who Stop the Russians The Guys Who Stop the Russians SOFspot is back with episode 41! Chelsea and Rick Lamb interview Jerry, a longtime Operator with Polish SOF Unit "GROM." They discuss how Polish SOF train and recruit, being a "Robocop" after Selection, and the unpredictable threats from their "Eastern Neighbors." 

Learn More about our 2020 (or 2021) Polish Symposium:
https://www.gsofeurope.org/

Corporate Partner Spotlight: C2 Essentials
https://www.c2essentials.com/

Support the show

]]> SOFspot is back with episode 41! Chelsea and Rick Lamb interview Jerry, a longtime Operator with Polish SOF Unit "GROM." They discuss how Polish SOF train and recruit, being a "Robocop" after Selection, and the unpredictable threats from their "Eastern Neighbors." 

Learn More about our 2020 (or 2021) Polish Symposium:
https://www.gsofeurope.org/

Corporate Partner Spotlight: C2 Essentials
https://www.c2essentials.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-4550252 Mon, 13 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0400 2545 41 full false Holy Toledo, We're Surrounded! Holy Toledo, We're Surrounded! This episode of SOFspot focuses on Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama, and more specifically, the first MaBell Panamanian Surrender Operation at Penonome. Our guests were three men who were in Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), there on the ground in Panama:

  • COL (Retired) David McCracken, who was a Major in 1989 and commanded Charlie Company
  • COL (Retired) Stephen Boston, who was a Captain in 1989 and the Executive Officer of Charlie Company
  • CSM (Retired) Rick Lamb, who was a Sergeant First Class in 1989 and performed the duties of a Special Forces Weapons Sergeant in Charlie Company

We talk about the logistics of the surrender plus what brought them into the operation at Penonome, why they wore "Mickey Mouse Ears," and how they spent that Christmas in Panama.

Just Cause Photo Album:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/184952949@N08/albums/72157714476005688/with/49941328773/

Partner Spotlight - ByLight:
https://bylight.com/

Support the show

]]> This episode of SOFspot focuses on Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama, and more specifically, the first MaBell Panamanian Surrender Operation at Penonome. Our guests were three men who were in Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), there on the ground in Panama:

  • COL (Retired) David McCracken, who was a Major in 1989 and commanded Charlie Company
  • COL (Retired) Stephen Boston, who was a Captain in 1989 and the Executive Officer of Charlie Company
  • CSM (Retired) Rick Lamb, who was a Sergeant First Class in 1989 and performed the duties of a Special Forces Weapons Sergeant in Charlie Company

We talk about the logistics of the surrender plus what brought them into the operation at Penonome, why they wore "Mickey Mouse Ears," and how they spent that Christmas in Panama.

Just Cause Photo Album:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/184952949@N08/albums/72157714476005688/with/49941328773/

Partner Spotlight - ByLight:
https://bylight.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-4045511 Thu, 04 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0400 2729 40 full false No Vaporware Allowed No Vaporware Allowed In this episode, Global SOF COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew interviews Mr. Peter Singer, the co-author of recently released novel: "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution."

They discuss the book, which centers around a terrorist attack in Washington, DC just 10 years in the future, and more specifically the technologies and scenarios that are featured. Everything is thoroughly researched and referenced, so that only technologies that are currently plausible in the next decade are realistically featured. #NoVaporware

Listen on to learn why we can get mad at Alexa, how FIC-INT (Fictional Intelligence) could help educate warfighters and policymakers, and what the AI/Human relationships of the future may look like...

Buy "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution":

Partner Spotlight: Bren-Tronics
https://www.bren-tronics.com/

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Global SOF COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew interviews Mr. Peter Singer, the co-author of recently released novel: "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution."

They discuss the book, which centers around a terrorist attack in Washington, DC just 10 years in the future, and more specifically the technologies and scenarios that are featured. Everything is thoroughly researched and referenced, so that only technologies that are currently plausible in the next decade are realistically featured. #NoVaporware

Listen on to learn why we can get mad at Alexa, how FIC-INT (Fictional Intelligence) could help educate warfighters and policymakers, and what the AI/Human relationships of the future may look like...

Buy "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution":

Partner Spotlight: Bren-Tronics
https://www.bren-tronics.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-3925007 Tue, 26 May 2020 16:00:00 -0400 2786 1 39 full false A Great Time To Be A Ranger A Great Time To Be A Ranger Chelsea Zooms with CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb about Operation EAGLE CLAW, the failed attempt to rescue hostages at the US Embassy in Iran in April 1980. They talk about what it was like to be a Ranger in the 70s, prepping for the mission, and what led to its eventual failure. Plus we talk about the outcomes of the mission and what changes it led to in the US DoD. 

Watch the SOF Story from Quarantine Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rnDPvv1tPE

Corporate Partner Highlight: Blue Light, LLC
https://bluelightllc.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea Zooms with CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb about Operation EAGLE CLAW, the failed attempt to rescue hostages at the US Embassy in Iran in April 1980. They talk about what it was like to be a Ranger in the 70s, prepping for the mission, and what led to its eventual failure. Plus we talk about the outcomes of the mission and what changes it led to in the US DoD. 

Watch the SOF Story from Quarantine Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rnDPvv1tPE

Corporate Partner Highlight: Blue Light, LLC
https://bluelightllc.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-3747596 Wed, 13 May 2020 20:00:00 -0400 2655 1 38 full false Puppet Master of Air Assets Puppet Master of Air Assets Chelsea and Steve sit down (virtually) with MSgt (Ret) Wes Bryant, a former JTAC and TACP with 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. He talks about the important role that a JTAC plays in combat operations, the importance of airstrikes in the fight against ISIS, and how that fight had to morph in different areas of the Middle East. 

Get the Book! "Hunting the Caliphate"
https://www.amazon.com/Hunting-Caliphate-Americas-ISIS-Strike-ebook/dp/B07TLG7DDJ

Corporate Partner Highlight: goTenna:
https://gotenna.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Steve sit down (virtually) with MSgt (Ret) Wes Bryant, a former JTAC and TACP with 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. He talks about the important role that a JTAC plays in combat operations, the importance of airstrikes in the fight against ISIS, and how that fight had to morph in different areas of the Middle East. 

Get the Book! "Hunting the Caliphate"
https://www.amazon.com/Hunting-Caliphate-Americas-ISIS-Strike-ebook/dp/B07TLG7DDJ

Corporate Partner Highlight: goTenna:
https://gotenna.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-3537865 Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400 2895 1 37 full false The Colombian Umbrella The Colombian Umbrella Chelsea and Stu have their first virtual podcast with US Army Special Forces COL (Ret) Kevin Higgins--from his home in El Salvador. He's had a lifelong career in South and Central America, with over a decade in Colombia. We talk about establishing the SF presence in the region, the development and strategies of Plan Colombia, and why the "war on drugs" may not have a true victory. Stay tuned to the end for a bonus story on boxing for the Golden Gloves.

Corporate Partner Highlight: Barbaricum
https://barbaricum.com/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Al Waha Security Solutions
https://wss.com.jo/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Stu have their first virtual podcast with US Army Special Forces COL (Ret) Kevin Higgins--from his home in El Salvador. He's had a lifelong career in South and Central America, with over a decade in Colombia. We talk about establishing the SF presence in the region, the development and strategies of Plan Colombia, and why the "war on drugs" may not have a true victory. Stay tuned to the end for a bonus story on boxing for the Golden Gloves.

Corporate Partner Highlight: Barbaricum
https://barbaricum.com/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Al Waha Security Solutions
https://wss.com.jo/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-3398959 Fri, 17 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0400 3134 36 full false COVID Update & SOF Stories COVID Update & SOF Stories This special episode of the podcast includes an update from Stu and Chelsea on the Global SOF focus during the Coronavirus Pandemic. 

Then we launch into two SOF Stories from Quarantine: one from Rick Lamb on Armed Overwatch and his relevant experiences in Somalia, followed by Stu's take on the Power of Partnerships and standing up the NATO SOF Headquarters in Europe.

Video Editions of SOF Stories:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUHPc9_rm4QmoSqaKSpKL7A

Global SOF Areas of Focus:
http://gsof.org/mission/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Black Cape
https://blackcape.io/

Support the show

]]> This special episode of the podcast includes an update from Stu and Chelsea on the Global SOF focus during the Coronavirus Pandemic. 

Then we launch into two SOF Stories from Quarantine: one from Rick Lamb on Armed Overwatch and his relevant experiences in Somalia, followed by Stu's take on the Power of Partnerships and standing up the NATO SOF Headquarters in Europe.

Video Editions of SOF Stories:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUHPc9_rm4QmoSqaKSpKL7A

Global SOF Areas of Focus:
http://gsof.org/mission/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Black Cape
https://blackcape.io/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-3258646 Mon, 06 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0400 1281 1 35 full false The History of BELSOF The History of BELSOF Two Belgian SOF Operators tell the story behind their Special Forces Group and Special Operations Regiment, diving deep into their roots in WWII. From the Battle of the Bulge to the Beaches of Normandy, learn about how Belgium's most elite soldiers earned their berets, impacted the war, and became the units they are today.

Belgium Museum Recommendation from Rick Lamb (After Corona):
http://www.pegasus-museum.be/

Belgium CDO Museum Recommendation from BELSOF Operator:
http://www.cdomuseum.be/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Huntington Ingalls Industries:
https://www.huntingtoningalls.com/


Support the show

]]> Two Belgian SOF Operators tell the story behind their Special Forces Group and Special Operations Regiment, diving deep into their roots in WWII. From the Battle of the Bulge to the Beaches of Normandy, learn about how Belgium's most elite soldiers earned their berets, impacted the war, and became the units they are today.

Belgium Museum Recommendation from Rick Lamb (After Corona):
http://www.pegasus-museum.be/

Belgium CDO Museum Recommendation from BELSOF Operator:
http://www.cdomuseum.be/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Huntington Ingalls Industries:
https://www.huntingtoningalls.com/


Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-3068785 Fri, 20 Mar 2020 15:00:00 -0400 1392 1 34 full false A Seat at the Table A Seat at the Table Get an inside look at our February SOF Imperatives Forum--specifically the panel on the Role of the Assistant SECDEF for Special Operations / Low-Intensity Conflict (ASD SO/LIC). Moderated by Catherine Herridge of CBS News, she spoke with three former ASD SO/LICs:

  • Michael Lumpkin
  • Brian Sheridan
  • Mark Mitchell

See what they had to say about the need to elevate the ASD SO/LIC to an Undersecretary position based on their own experiences with the role.

See our Op/Ed on the topic:
https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/politics/469111-americas-avengers-deserve-an-advocate

Corporate Partner Highlight: Allies, Inc.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allies-inc-/

Support the show

]]> Get an inside look at our February SOF Imperatives Forum--specifically the panel on the Role of the Assistant SECDEF for Special Operations / Low-Intensity Conflict (ASD SO/LIC). Moderated by Catherine Herridge of CBS News, she spoke with three former ASD SO/LICs:

  • Michael Lumpkin
  • Brian Sheridan
  • Mark Mitchell

See what they had to say about the need to elevate the ASD SO/LIC to an Undersecretary position based on their own experiences with the role.

See our Op/Ed on the topic:
https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/politics/469111-americas-avengers-deserve-an-advocate

Corporate Partner Highlight: Allies, Inc.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allies-inc-/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2964385 Mon, 09 Mar 2020 16:00:00 -0400 2252 Catherine Herridge, Michael Lumpkin, ASD SO/LIC, Special Operations, SOF Policy, SOF Imperatives, Global SOF 1 33 full false Serving as an "Ordinary" Citizen Serving as an "Ordinary" Citizen Jim Hake, the CEO and Founder of non-profit Spirit of America, joins Chelsea and Steve to talk about his organization. Inspired by the events of 9/11, Jim founded SoA to help support the American mission in countries around the globe. He calls himself an "ordinary citizen," but we think you'll agree he's much more than that!

From baseball equipment to veterinary training, SoA uses its "venture capital model" to take actions that build global relationships with agility and flexibility.

Learn More About Spirit of America:
https://spiritofamerica.org/

Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://www.sosi.com/

Support the show

]]> Jim Hake, the CEO and Founder of non-profit Spirit of America, joins Chelsea and Steve to talk about his organization. Inspired by the events of 9/11, Jim founded SoA to help support the American mission in countries around the globe. He calls himself an "ordinary citizen," but we think you'll agree he's much more than that!

From baseball equipment to veterinary training, SoA uses its "venture capital model" to take actions that build global relationships with agility and flexibility.

Learn More About Spirit of America:
https://spiritofamerica.org/

Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://www.sosi.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2786935 Wed, 19 Feb 2020 12:00:00 -0500 2127 32 full false The Terrorism Threat Picture The Terrorism Threat Picture This episode features the "Future of Terrorism: A New America Assessment" panel from the September 2019 SOF Policy Forum in Washington, DC. Panelists Melissa Salyk-Virk and David Sterman talk about their findings around the increase in drone attacks, issues in the Horn of Africa and Yemen, and the impact of different ideologies both within and outside of the U.S.

To learn more, make sure you check out their full assessment:
https://www.newamerica.org/international-security/reports/terrorism-america-18-years-after-911/

And don't miss our upcoming SOF Imperatives Forum in DC:
https://gsofimperatives.org/dc-program/

Plus, our Corporate Partner Highlight, Peraton:
https://www.peraton.com/

Support the show

]]> This episode features the "Future of Terrorism: A New America Assessment" panel from the September 2019 SOF Policy Forum in Washington, DC. Panelists Melissa Salyk-Virk and David Sterman talk about their findings around the increase in drone attacks, issues in the Horn of Africa and Yemen, and the impact of different ideologies both within and outside of the U.S.

To learn more, make sure you check out their full assessment:
https://www.newamerica.org/international-security/reports/terrorism-america-18-years-after-911/

And don't miss our upcoming SOF Imperatives Forum in DC:
https://gsofimperatives.org/dc-program/

Plus, our Corporate Partner Highlight, Peraton:
https://www.peraton.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2659048 Tue, 04 Feb 2020 15:00:00 -0500 1567 New America, Terrorism, Defense, Drones, Horn of Africa, Yemen, ISIS 1 31 full false Do Something That Matters Do Something That Matters Chelsea and Steve sat down with six active duty soldiers at U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) from Special Forces (SF), Civil Affairs (CA), and Psychological Operations (PSYOP). We discussed joining the Army, differences between conventional and SOF service, and what opportunities ARSOF holds for female soldiers. Thanks to our participants: Ben, Garrett, Rihanna, Kiel, Doug, and Angela!

Learn more about USASOC:
https://www.soc.mil/

Global SOF Partner Highlight: BlackFish
http://blackfishsolutions.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Steve sat down with six active duty soldiers at U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) from Special Forces (SF), Civil Affairs (CA), and Psychological Operations (PSYOP). We discussed joining the Army, differences between conventional and SOF service, and what opportunities ARSOF holds for female soldiers. Thanks to our participants: Ben, Garrett, Rihanna, Kiel, Doug, and Angela!

Learn more about USASOC:
https://www.soc.mil/

Global SOF Partner Highlight: BlackFish
http://blackfishsolutions.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2510026 Thu, 16 Jan 2020 20:00:00 -0500 1970 Army, US Army, SOF, Special Operations, Civil Affairs, PSYOP, Special Forces, SF, USASOC 1 30 full false Deep Behind Enemy Lines Deep Behind Enemy Lines Chelsea is joined by GSF President Stu Bradin to talk with LTC (Ret) Jimmy Reese. Reese talks about his unconventional path in the Army that ultimately led him to Delta Force, Operation Anaconda, and becoming an entrepreneur after retiring from Active Duty.

Partner Highlight: The Range Complex
https://www.therangecomplex.com/

Learn More... Stu references Peter Blaber's Book on Operation Anaconda (and more), which is called, "The Mission, The Men, and Me: Lessons from a Former Delta Force Commander":
https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Men-Me-Lessons-Commander/dp/0425223728

Support the show

]]> Chelsea is joined by GSF President Stu Bradin to talk with LTC (Ret) Jimmy Reese. Reese talks about his unconventional path in the Army that ultimately led him to Delta Force, Operation Anaconda, and becoming an entrepreneur after retiring from Active Duty.

Partner Highlight: The Range Complex
https://www.therangecomplex.com/

Learn More... Stu references Peter Blaber's Book on Operation Anaconda (and more), which is called, "The Mission, The Men, and Me: Lessons from a Former Delta Force Commander":
https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Men-Me-Lessons-Commander/dp/0425223728

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2310740 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 16:00:00 -0500 2527 Delta Force, Special Forces, Special Operations, SOF, Jim Reese, Afghanistan, Operation Anaconda, TigerSwan, The Range Complex, Green Beret, Army Ranger 1 29 full true Armed with Opportunities Armed with Opportunities LTC Rick Woolshlager is the Commander of the U.S. Army's Special Operations Recruiting Battalion--and he's the guest on this episode of SOFspot! Chelsea met with him at Ft. Bragg to learn about the Army's in-service recruiting team and the many career fields that are available in Army SOF. We talk about opportunities for women, what you should know before you separate from active duty, and if Hollywood has had an impact on recruiting.

Learn More About Army Special Operations:
http://goarmysof.com/

Global SOF Corporate Partner Highlight: Peraton
https://www.peraton.com/

Support the show

]]> LTC Rick Woolshlager is the Commander of the U.S. Army's Special Operations Recruiting Battalion--and he's the guest on this episode of SOFspot! Chelsea met with him at Ft. Bragg to learn about the Army's in-service recruiting team and the many career fields that are available in Army SOF. We talk about opportunities for women, what you should know before you separate from active duty, and if Hollywood has had an impact on recruiting.

Learn More About Army Special Operations:
http://goarmysof.com/

Global SOF Corporate Partner Highlight: Peraton
https://www.peraton.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2264036 Wed, 11 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0500 1635 Army, US Army, SOF, Special Operations, SORB, Fort Bragg, Global SOF, SF, PSYOP, EOD 1 28 full false I Served With Great Soldiers I Served With Great Soldiers Chelsea and Rick were honored to chat with MG (Ret) Ken Bowra, an American Special Forces hero who's service goes back to the Vietnam War. MG Bowra talks about serving with the MACVSOG-- Military Assistance Command - Vietnam, Studies and Observations Group.

He discusses different tactics used during recon missions, the importance of different types of equipment, and the brotherhood he had with the indigenous troops. It's a very interesting conversation that dives into the real experiences of a Special Forces soldier in Vietnam.

Read the MACVSOG Presidential Unit Citation:
http://www.specialoperations.org/macvsog_puc.html

Global SOF Partner Highlight: Axiologic Solutions:
https://axiologicsolutions.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Rick were honored to chat with MG (Ret) Ken Bowra, an American Special Forces hero who's service goes back to the Vietnam War. MG Bowra talks about serving with the MACVSOG-- Military Assistance Command - Vietnam, Studies and Observations Group.

He discusses different tactics used during recon missions, the importance of different types of equipment, and the brotherhood he had with the indigenous troops. It's a very interesting conversation that dives into the real experiences of a Special Forces soldier in Vietnam.

Read the MACVSOG Presidential Unit Citation:
http://www.specialoperations.org/macvsog_puc.html

Global SOF Partner Highlight: Axiologic Solutions:
https://axiologicsolutions.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2229257 Thu, 05 Dec 2019 15:00:00 -0500 2180 Ken bowra, vietnam, special operations, war, military, special forces, gsf, global sof, army, u.s. 1 27 full false Evolving SOF Leadership Evolving SOF Leadership Please note: The statements and opinions of the speakers in this episode are their own. They are not speaking on behalf of the U.S. Government.

This episode comes from this year's SOF Policy Forum in DC, which was held on 18 SEP 2019. We're bringing you a panel called, "Does SOF Leadership Need to Evolve to Win the Future Fight." It features:

- MAJ Nicole Alexander, an Operations Officer in the U.S. Army
- LTC Kevin Trujillo, a National Security Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School
- Col Meghan M. Ripple, a Senior Military Evaluator for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation
- MSgt Michael W. MacKay, Enlisted Leader, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command

And it's moderated by Lyla Kohistany, President and Co-Founder of PROMOTE.

Global SOF Foundation Partner Highlight: Akima
http://www.akima.com/

Support the show

]]> Please note: The statements and opinions of the speakers in this episode are their own. They are not speaking on behalf of the U.S. Government.

This episode comes from this year's SOF Policy Forum in DC, which was held on 18 SEP 2019. We're bringing you a panel called, "Does SOF Leadership Need to Evolve to Win the Future Fight." It features:

- MAJ Nicole Alexander, an Operations Officer in the U.S. Army
- LTC Kevin Trujillo, a National Security Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School
- Col Meghan M. Ripple, a Senior Military Evaluator for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation
- MSgt Michael W. MacKay, Enlisted Leader, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command

And it's moderated by Lyla Kohistany, President and Co-Founder of PROMOTE.

Global SOF Foundation Partner Highlight: Akima
http://www.akima.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2171738 Tue, 26 Nov 2019 10:00:00 -0500 2682 leadership, special operations, sof, global sof, promote, new america 1 26 full false The SOF Comms Arsenal The SOF Comms Arsenal Global SOF President Stu Bradin sat down with three experts from the SOF Communications (Comms) Community to talk about their careers in the field, the SOF comms "boom" when everything changed, and what they think the future will bring. Our three commo guests are COL (Ret) Joe Tragakis, SGM (Ret) Arthur "AC" Coley, and CPT (Ret) Rob Keeler.

GSF Corporate Partner Spotlight - AirScan:

http://www.airscan.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF President Stu Bradin sat down with three experts from the SOF Communications (Comms) Community to talk about their careers in the field, the SOF comms "boom" when everything changed, and what they think the future will bring. Our three commo guests are COL (Ret) Joe Tragakis, SGM (Ret) Arthur "AC" Coley, and CPT (Ret) Rob Keeler.

GSF Corporate Partner Spotlight - AirScan:

http://www.airscan.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-2046171 Mon, 11 Nov 2019 22:00:00 -0500 3182 Special Operations, Communication, Comms, SOF, Army, US, Rangers, Green Beret, Signal 1 25 full false Fight for the Budget Fight for the Budget This episode features Lt. Gen. (Ret) Tom Trask, former Vice Commander of USSOCOM and current member of the Global SOF Advisory Council, along with GSF President/CEO Stu Bradin. They talk about the past and future efforts of the GSF on Capitol Hill, including our platform document--the SOF Imperatives-- and our new partnership with Navigators Global to further our efforts to educate Congressional Staffers. 

Plus, it's our first ever Video Podcast... so you can watch along here:
http://bit.ly/sofspot24vid 

Take the SOF Imperatives Survey:
http://bit.ly/2020SOF

GSF Partner Highlight: ATN Corp
https://www.atncorp.com/

Register for the Demo Days (and Modern Warfare Week):
https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/

Support the show

]]> This episode features Lt. Gen. (Ret) Tom Trask, former Vice Commander of USSOCOM and current member of the Global SOF Advisory Council, along with GSF President/CEO Stu Bradin. They talk about the past and future efforts of the GSF on Capitol Hill, including our platform document--the SOF Imperatives-- and our new partnership with Navigators Global to further our efforts to educate Congressional Staffers. 

Plus, it's our first ever Video Podcast... so you can watch along here:
http://bit.ly/sofspot24vid 

Take the SOF Imperatives Survey:
http://bit.ly/2020SOF

GSF Partner Highlight: ATN Corp
https://www.atncorp.com/

Register for the Demo Days (and Modern Warfare Week):
https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1919435 Wed, 23 Oct 2019 12:00:00 -0400 1693 Global SOF, SOF, Special Operations, Policy, Navigators Global, Tom Trask, SOCOM, Congress, US Government 1 24 full false Listening in on al-Qa'ida Listening in on al-Qa'ida We sat down with AQ and Islamic State expert, Dr. Nelly Lahoud, for a deep dive into the now declassified documents recovered from Osama Bin Laden's Compound in Abbottabad. Dr. Lahoud took us through what she learned from personally translating and analyzing all 6,000 pages of these documents, from the impact of drone strikes to the relationships between AQ and other terrorist organizations in the region. Spoiler alert: many widely accepted ideas may not be correct...

Episode Links:

- Dr. Nelly Lahoud's Books
https://www.amazon.com/Nelly-Lahoud/e/B001KDRC0W%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
- Martha Crenshaw's "The Causes of Terrorism"
https://www.jstor.org/stable/421717?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents
- Modern Warfare Symposium
https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/
- GSF Partner Highlight: Air Center Helicopters
https://air.center/

Support the show

]]> We sat down with AQ and Islamic State expert, Dr. Nelly Lahoud, for a deep dive into the now declassified documents recovered from Osama Bin Laden's Compound in Abbottabad. Dr. Lahoud took us through what she learned from personally translating and analyzing all 6,000 pages of these documents, from the impact of drone strikes to the relationships between AQ and other terrorist organizations in the region. Spoiler alert: many widely accepted ideas may not be correct...

Episode Links:

- Dr. Nelly Lahoud's Books
https://www.amazon.com/Nelly-Lahoud/e/B001KDRC0W%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
- Martha Crenshaw's "The Causes of Terrorism"
https://www.jstor.org/stable/421717?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents
- Modern Warfare Symposium
https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/
- GSF Partner Highlight: Air Center Helicopters
https://air.center/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1891994 Fri, 18 Oct 2019 18:00:00 -0400 2149 ISIS, Al Qaida, Al Qaeda, AQ, terrorism, security, Nelly Lahoud, Special Operations, SOF, Global SOF 1 23 full false Don't Call For The Medic Don't Call For The Medic This is our second episode with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. In part two of the conversation we discuss what Dan sees for the future of SOF medicine, the Alan Babin Rule, and freeze-dried plasma. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Aero Pioneer Group
https://aero-pioneer.com/

Alan Babin on the Gary Sinise Foundation:
https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/specially-adapted-smart-homes/alan-babin/

Stop the Bleeding:
http://stopthebleedingcoalition.org/i

Support the show

]]> This is our second episode with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. In part two of the conversation we discuss what Dan sees for the future of SOF medicine, the Alan Babin Rule, and freeze-dried plasma. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Aero Pioneer Group
https://aero-pioneer.com/

Alan Babin on the Gary Sinise Foundation:
https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/specially-adapted-smart-homes/alan-babin/

Stop the Bleeding:
http://stopthebleedingcoalition.org/i

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1842226 Wed, 09 Oct 2019 15:00:00 -0400 1446 medical, special operations, military, SOF, medic, science, technology, plasma, gary sinise 1 22 full false Tactical Combat Casualty Care Tactical Combat Casualty Care Stu and Chelsea of the GSF met with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. We had such a good conversation that it was worthy of two episodes... this is Part 1. In this episode we discuss NATO SOF medics, the crazy advancements in simulated training, and tourniquets... lots of tourniquets. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: AC4S
https://www.ac4s.com/

Support the show

]]> Stu and Chelsea of the GSF met with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. We had such a good conversation that it was worthy of two episodes... this is Part 1. In this episode we discuss NATO SOF medics, the crazy advancements in simulated training, and tourniquets... lots of tourniquets. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: AC4S
https://www.ac4s.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1763950 Tue, 24 Sep 2019 22:00:00 -0400 2253 SOF, military, medical, medics, special operations, medevac, nato 1 21 full false Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda Ranger Rick and Chelsea talked to Bryce Mahoney of the Darby Project--a non-profit that connects, educates, and empowers Army Rangers to lead the way in their communities. We talked about everything from finances to being a "Ranger Always" to ways anyone can support an active duty military member throughout their transition. It's a good listen whether you are, were, or have never been active duty... so please enjoy our 20th episode!

Learn more about The Darby Project:
https://darbyproject.org/

Participate in Run Ranger Run:
https://runrangerrun.com/

Learn more about our highlighted Partner: COMSAT
https://www.comsat.com/

Support the show

]]> Ranger Rick and Chelsea talked to Bryce Mahoney of the Darby Project--a non-profit that connects, educates, and empowers Army Rangers to lead the way in their communities. We talked about everything from finances to being a "Ranger Always" to ways anyone can support an active duty military member throughout their transition. It's a good listen whether you are, were, or have never been active duty... so please enjoy our 20th episode!

Learn more about The Darby Project:
https://darbyproject.org/

Participate in Run Ranger Run:
https://runrangerrun.com/

Learn more about our highlighted Partner: COMSAT
https://www.comsat.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1606120 Mon, 26 Aug 2019 15:00:00 -0400 2963 military, transition, global sof, special operations, the darby project, ft benning, us army 1 20 full true You Can't Keep Up with Belgium You Can't Keep Up with Belgium The former SOF members of the GSF Team--Stu and Rick--talk with Chelsea about the GSF's 4th Annual Symposium in Europe. This event is taking place in Brussels, Belgium, a hub for EU and NATO special operations. We talk about key speakers at the event, why it's important to convene the local community, and what we're most excited to see happen in this vibrant European hub. We hope to see you there!

Learn more about the Symposium in Belgium:
http://bit.ly/19BELpod

GSF Partner Highlight: Spectra Group UK
https://spectra-group.co.uk/

Support the show

]]> The former SOF members of the GSF Team--Stu and Rick--talk with Chelsea about the GSF's 4th Annual Symposium in Europe. This event is taking place in Brussels, Belgium, a hub for EU and NATO special operations. We talk about key speakers at the event, why it's important to convene the local community, and what we're most excited to see happen in this vibrant European hub. We hope to see you there!

Learn more about the Symposium in Belgium:
http://bit.ly/19BELpod

GSF Partner Highlight: Spectra Group UK
https://spectra-group.co.uk/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1587811 Thu, 22 Aug 2019 12:00:00 -0400 1472 belgium, brussels, europe, military, special operations, global sof, sof 1 19 full true Uncomfortable in Transition Uncomfortable in Transition At the 2019 Ranger Rendezvous, Chelsea and Rick had the chance to talk to Marcus Hull and Steve Berry of the Three Rangers Foundation. It's a great organization that supports Veterans in many ways--from mentorships to transition support to mental fitness. This episode hits on a lot of real issues and will resonate with anyone who has served (and especially anyone who has transitioned from active duty service)!

Learn More about Three Rangers Foundation:
http://threerangersfoundation.org/

Learn More about GSF Partner MarkLogic:
https://www.marklogic.com/

Support the show

]]> At the 2019 Ranger Rendezvous, Chelsea and Rick had the chance to talk to Marcus Hull and Steve Berry of the Three Rangers Foundation. It's a great organization that supports Veterans in many ways--from mentorships to transition support to mental fitness. This episode hits on a lot of real issues and will resonate with anyone who has served (and especially anyone who has transitioned from active duty service)!

Learn More about Three Rangers Foundation:
http://threerangersfoundation.org/

Learn More about GSF Partner MarkLogic:
https://www.marklogic.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1553860 Thu, 15 Aug 2019 11:00:00 -0400 1672 Three Rangers, Army Rangers, SOF, Military, Defense, Transition 1 18 full false Unbroken Chain of Army Rangers Unbroken Chain of Army Rangers The GSF's Chelsea Hamashin and CSM (RET) Rick Lamb had the opportunity to attend the 2019 Ranger Rendezvous at Ft. Benning this July. They sat down with US Army Ranger Veteran Tony Mayne to talk about what the Ranger Rendezvous entails, what it means to current and former Rangers, and even hit on some Army history! 

Learn More about the 75th Ranger Regiment:
https://www.75thrra.org/reunion/

Check out the Modern Warfare Symposium:
http://bit.ly/19MWSOFspot

Support the show

]]> The GSF's Chelsea Hamashin and CSM (RET) Rick Lamb had the opportunity to attend the 2019 Ranger Rendezvous at Ft. Benning this July. They sat down with US Army Ranger Veteran Tony Mayne to talk about what the Ranger Rendezvous entails, what it means to current and former Rangers, and even hit on some Army history! 

Learn More about the 75th Ranger Regiment:
https://www.75thrra.org/reunion/

Check out the Modern Warfare Symposium:
http://bit.ly/19MWSOFspot

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1526575 Fri, 09 Aug 2019 13:00:00 -0400 847 ranger rendezvous, ranger, army, sof, special operations, military, special forces 1 17 full true Law Enforcement: Continue to Serve Law Enforcement: Continue to Serve Chelsea and Ranger Rick set a GSF Podcast record by hosting 6 guests from the Pasco Police Office, including Sheriff Chris Nocco. Pasco PD is spearheading efforts in Florida to recruit and employ former Special Operators, and they are piloting programs to expedite the qualification processes. We also discussed Human Performance, the mirrored camaraderie between Special Ops and Police Units, and what about the job is most fulfilling to each guest.

More about Pasco PD:
https://pascosheriff.com/

GSF Partner Highlight: Insitu
https://www.insitu.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Ranger Rick set a GSF Podcast record by hosting 6 guests from the Pasco Police Office, including Sheriff Chris Nocco. Pasco PD is spearheading efforts in Florida to recruit and employ former Special Operators, and they are piloting programs to expedite the qualification processes. We also discussed Human Performance, the mirrored camaraderie between Special Ops and Police Units, and what about the job is most fulfilling to each guest.

More about Pasco PD:
https://pascosheriff.com/

GSF Partner Highlight: Insitu
https://www.insitu.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1429438 Thu, 25 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0400 2319 Pasco, police, military, sof, defense, special operations 1 16 full false Credits from Experience at Norwich Credits from Experience at Norwich Chelsea was joined by GSF President Stu Bradin and Norwich University's Bill Clements, who is both the Dean of the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies and the VP of Academic Affairs. Norwich University has a long military tradition, from being the birthplace of ROTC to its present-day programs that provide school credit for experiential learning for current and former SOF. Listen and learn (and then learn some more!)

More about Norwich's Online Programs:
https://online.norwich.edu/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Excelitas
https://www.excelitas.com/

Support the show

]]> Chelsea was joined by GSF President Stu Bradin and Norwich University's Bill Clements, who is both the Dean of the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies and the VP of Academic Affairs. Norwich University has a long military tradition, from being the birthplace of ROTC to its present-day programs that provide school credit for experiential learning for current and former SOF. Listen and learn (and then learn some more!)

More about Norwich's Online Programs:
https://online.norwich.edu/

Corporate Partner Highlight: Excelitas
https://www.excelitas.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1424413 Wed, 17 Jul 2019 16:00:00 -0400 2568 Norwich, College, Military, Transition, University, SOF, Special Ops, Defense, Government 1 15 full false Cities: A System of Systems Cities: A System of Systems In this episode our team sat down with MAJ (Ret) John Spencer, the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute and Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project. We talked about what makes Urban Warfare so different, the lack of true training facilities for this terrain, and how SOF can lead the charge on improving preparedness for the Urban Battlefield.

Link to Referenced Concrete Article:
https://mwi.usma.edu/effective-weapon-modern-battlefield-concrete/

Corporate Partner Highlight:
Northrop Grumman: https://news.northropgrumman.com/

Support the show

]]> In this episode our team sat down with MAJ (Ret) John Spencer, the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute and Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project. We talked about what makes Urban Warfare so different, the lack of true training facilities for this terrain, and how SOF can lead the charge on improving preparedness for the Urban Battlefield.

Link to Referenced Concrete Article:
https://mwi.usma.edu/effective-weapon-modern-battlefield-concrete/

Corporate Partner Highlight:
Northrop Grumman: https://news.northropgrumman.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1391413 Tue, 09 Jul 2019 23:00:00 -0400 2092 Urban warfare, sof, special operations, terrain, warfare, military, marines, defense, army 1 14 full false Everybody Wants Those "Cybers" Everybody Wants Those "Cybers" Chelsea and Meaghan had a great talk with LTC Natalie Vanatta of the US Army Cyber Institute. They hit everything from how cyber fits in to special operations to resiliency in the cyber domain to the future threat landscape. It was an interesting discussion, whether you're a cyber pro or a "newb."

Learn more about the Army Cyber Institute:
https://cyber.army.mil/

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Oracle
https://www.oracle.com/webfolder/join-nsg/index.html


Support the show

]]> Chelsea and Meaghan had a great talk with LTC Natalie Vanatta of the US Army Cyber Institute. They hit everything from how cyber fits in to special operations to resiliency in the cyber domain to the future threat landscape. It was an interesting discussion, whether you're a cyber pro or a "newb."

Learn more about the Army Cyber Institute:
https://cyber.army.mil/

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Oracle
https://www.oracle.com/webfolder/join-nsg/index.html


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]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1359886 Tue, 02 Jul 2019 16:00:00 -0400 1647 cyber, military, army, defense, special operations, global sof, sofspot 1 13 full false Realities of Space Conflict Realities of Space Conflict In today's "Space Jam" episode, two Space Professionals joined Chelsea and Steve to talk about the realities of Space Conflict, touching on everything from the competitive advantage in space to the impacts of SpaceX, to the inspiration of pop culture on space exploration.

Thank you to the two Space Professionals who joined us: US Army Col Dennis Wille and Carissa Christensen, the CEO of Bryce Space and Technology.

Highlighted GSF Corporate Partner:
BAE Systems: https://www.baesystems.com/

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]]> In today's "Space Jam" episode, two Space Professionals joined Chelsea and Steve to talk about the realities of Space Conflict, touching on everything from the competitive advantage in space to the impacts of SpaceX, to the inspiration of pop culture on space exploration.

Thank you to the two Space Professionals who joined us: US Army Col Dennis Wille and Carissa Christensen, the CEO of Bryce Space and Technology.

Highlighted GSF Corporate Partner:
BAE Systems: https://www.baesystems.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1324105 Mon, 24 Jun 2019 15:00:00 -0400 1682 Space, Space Force, SOF, Special Operations, Army, Military, Defense, Space-X 1 12 full false Failure of Imagination Failure of Imagination In this episode Meaghan, Chelsea, and Steve team up to talk to Nick Rasmussen, a Senior Director for National Security and Counterterrorism Programs at the McCain Institute and former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). We discussed many facets of counter-terrorism (CT), from having the "imagination" to prevent attacks, the importance of using technology to become more efficient at CT, and the importance of working with Partner Nations to effectively fight terrorism.

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight:
Cubic Corp: www.cubic.com 

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]]> In this episode Meaghan, Chelsea, and Steve team up to talk to Nick Rasmussen, a Senior Director for National Security and Counterterrorism Programs at the McCain Institute and former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). We discussed many facets of counter-terrorism (CT), from having the "imagination" to prevent attacks, the importance of using technology to become more efficient at CT, and the importance of working with Partner Nations to effectively fight terrorism.

GSF Corporate Partner Highlight:
Cubic Corp: www.cubic.com 

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1274593 Thu, 13 Jun 2019 11:00:00 -0400 1036 ISIS, terrorism, counter-terrorism, Nick Rasmussen, NCTC, Partner Nations 1 11 full false The New Great Game The New Great Game Members of the Global SOF team sat down with The Honorable Sharon Burke, a senior advisor at New America and former assistant secretary of defense for operational energy. We talked about the challenges of the thawing operational environment in the Arctic, the various competitive spaces around natural resources, and worldwide effects of climate change.

GSF Partner Highlight: Cisco
Learn more at: https://www.cisco.com/

Thanks to New America for facilitating:
https://www.newamerica.org/

Support the show

]]> Members of the Global SOF team sat down with The Honorable Sharon Burke, a senior advisor at New America and former assistant secretary of defense for operational energy. We talked about the challenges of the thawing operational environment in the Arctic, the various competitive spaces around natural resources, and worldwide effects of climate change.

GSF Partner Highlight: Cisco
Learn more at: https://www.cisco.com/

Thanks to New America for facilitating:
https://www.newamerica.org/

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]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1237691 Fri, 07 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0400 1776 Sharon Burke, Natural Resources, Arctic, Climate Change, Energy, Defense 1 10 full false Rethink our National Security Rethink our National Security Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew and Steve Jones from the Global SOF team sat down with Congressman Seth Moulton to discuss his views on the U.S. Defense Strategy, ranging from how the budget should be allocated to cyber warfare to the approach to global defense organizations like NATO. See what the Congressman, who is running for the Democratic Nomination for President, has to say in this week's episode.

GSF Partner Highlight: PAE
Learn more at: https://www.pae.com/

Thanks to New America for facilitating:
Learn more at: https://www.newamerica.org/

Support the show

]]> Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew and Steve Jones from the Global SOF team sat down with Congressman Seth Moulton to discuss his views on the U.S. Defense Strategy, ranging from how the budget should be allocated to cyber warfare to the approach to global defense organizations like NATO. See what the Congressman, who is running for the Democratic Nomination for President, has to say in this week's episode.

GSF Partner Highlight: PAE
Learn more at: https://www.pae.com/

Thanks to New America for facilitating:
Learn more at: https://www.newamerica.org/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1231754 Mon, 03 Jun 2019 15:00:00 -0400 1001 Seth Moulton, Congress, US Government, Defense, Military, SOF, Marines, Massachusetts 1 9 full false A Totally Different World A Totally Different World Chelsea was joined in today's episode by the GSF's "Ranger Rick" Lamb and Colonel Magne Rodahl, a Norwegian SOF Officer, to talk about the Telemark Raid of WW2. This mission was primarily conducted by Norwegian SOF, so we talk about the raid's significance to the war, some of the heroes who contributed, and the importance of allies.

So jump on the lift and ride with us up this mountain of a story.....hint: skiing is involved! 

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]]> Chelsea was joined in today's episode by the GSF's "Ranger Rick" Lamb and Colonel Magne Rodahl, a Norwegian SOF Officer, to talk about the Telemark Raid of WW2. This mission was primarily conducted by Norwegian SOF, so we talk about the raid's significance to the war, some of the heroes who contributed, and the importance of allies.

So jump on the lift and ride with us up this mountain of a story.....hint: skiing is involved! 

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1051349 Tue, 23 Apr 2019 12:00:00 -0400 1377 WW2, WWII, Military, Norway, SOF, Special Operations, Telemark Raid, Ski, 1 8 full false Unify Across Party Lines Unify Across Party Lines Today's guest was The Honorable Jim Locher-- a man who played a leading role in the Goldwater-Nichols Act, the Nunn-Cohen Amendment, the Bosnia Defense Reform Commission, and so much more. He sat down with the GSF's Chelsea Hamashin and Dr. Keenan Yoho to discuss these massive undertakings throughout his career and how he worked across party lines to make things happen. 

Enjoy this talk with Mr. Locher, which we are releasing on the 32nd Birthday of US Special Operations Command due to Mr. Locher's role in its establishment.

Want to learn more? You can buy Mr. Locher's book, "Victory on the Potomac," here:
https://www.amazon.com/Victory-Potomac-Goldwater-Nichols-Williams-Ford-University/dp/1585443980

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]]> Today's guest was The Honorable Jim Locher-- a man who played a leading role in the Goldwater-Nichols Act, the Nunn-Cohen Amendment, the Bosnia Defense Reform Commission, and so much more. He sat down with the GSF's Chelsea Hamashin and Dr. Keenan Yoho to discuss these massive undertakings throughout his career and how he worked across party lines to make things happen. 

Enjoy this talk with Mr. Locher, which we are releasing on the 32nd Birthday of US Special Operations Command due to Mr. Locher's role in its establishment.

Want to learn more? You can buy Mr. Locher's book, "Victory on the Potomac," here:
https://www.amazon.com/Victory-Potomac-Goldwater-Nichols-Williams-Ford-University/dp/1585443980

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1042784 Tue, 16 Apr 2019 15:00:00 -0400 2701 SOCOM, Special Operations, Jim Locher, Goldwater-Nichols, Nunn-Cohen, SOF, Congress 1 7 full false Maintain Diverse Talent Maintain Diverse Talent Meaghan and Chelsea sat down with Lyla Kohistany and Ashley Sogge from PROMOTE, an organization that focuses on inclusive leadership and maintaining the diverse talent within a SOF workforce. We learn why they started PROMOTE, their process in working with SOF units, and the results of their workshops--even when they get weird! If you'd like to learn more about PROMOTE, check out the links below!

Read their latest Article: Dispelling the Myth of Women in Special Operations
Visit them Online: http://www.promoteleadership.org/
Contact them: founders@promoteleadership.org 

Support the show

]]> Meaghan and Chelsea sat down with Lyla Kohistany and Ashley Sogge from PROMOTE, an organization that focuses on inclusive leadership and maintaining the diverse talent within a SOF workforce. We learn why they started PROMOTE, their process in working with SOF units, and the results of their workshops--even when they get weird! If you'd like to learn more about PROMOTE, check out the links below!

Read their latest Article: Dispelling the Myth of Women in Special Operations
Visit them Online: http://www.promoteleadership.org/
Contact them: founders@promoteleadership.org 

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-1030952 Mon, 08 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400 2566 PROMOTE, leadership, diversity, inclusion, Special Operations, SOF, military, women in SOF 1 6 full false Grow through Failure Grow through Failure Small businesses are a crucial piece of the defense industry puzzle, especially in the Special Operations domain. In this episode, we had a good discussion with representatives from two of our Small Business Partners-- Lori Larsen of Celestar and Garth Arevalo of Lukos. We talked everything from the pains and perks of running a small business to how to get your foot in the door with special operations.

Learn more about our guest companies:
Lukos: http://lukos.com/
Celestar: https://www.celestarcorp.com/

Support the show

]]> Small businesses are a crucial piece of the defense industry puzzle, especially in the Special Operations domain. In this episode, we had a good discussion with representatives from two of our Small Business Partners-- Lori Larsen of Celestar and Garth Arevalo of Lukos. We talked everything from the pains and perks of running a small business to how to get your foot in the door with special operations.

Learn more about our guest companies:
Lukos: http://lukos.com/
Celestar: https://www.celestarcorp.com/

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-996802 Fri, 15 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0400 3120 SOF, Special Operations, Small Business, SOCOM, Small Biz, Defense, Military 1 5 full false The Bennies of SkillBridge The Bennies of SkillBridge Free money, job experience, and network growth? Those are some "bennies" we can get behind. DoD SkillBridge is a lesser-known Fellowship Program offered by the U.S. Department of Defense-- it allows Active Duty Military to participate in internships with companies of their choosing prior to their separation from Active Duty. 

In today's episode, CDR (Ret) Steve Jones and CDR (Ret) Chuck Neu--both SkillBridge Vets-- talk about their experience with the opportunity and why anyone leaving the U.S. Military should participate.

For Reference: https://dodskillbridge.com/ 

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]]> Free money, job experience, and network growth? Those are some "bennies" we can get behind. DoD SkillBridge is a lesser-known Fellowship Program offered by the U.S. Department of Defense-- it allows Active Duty Military to participate in internships with companies of their choosing prior to their separation from Active Duty. 

In today's episode, CDR (Ret) Steve Jones and CDR (Ret) Chuck Neu--both SkillBridge Vets-- talk about their experience with the opportunity and why anyone leaving the U.S. Military should participate.

For Reference: https://dodskillbridge.com/ 

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-953053 Mon, 11 Feb 2019 13:00:00 -0500 2458 military transition, special operations, sof, skillbridge, military, dod 1 4 full true Sit Down and Have A Meal Sit Down and Have A Meal Today we discussed the ins and outs of conducting business, specifically SOF business, on an international level. Topics include the importance of personal relationships, legal considerations, and venues for building out your global network. Our guests today, Mr. Tony Quartararo from Spatial Networks and Mr. Stan Highsmith of Fulcrum (both representatives of GSF Small Business Partners) provide real-world experience and vignettes.

Support the show

]]> Today we discussed the ins and outs of conducting business, specifically SOF business, on an international level. Topics include the importance of personal relationships, legal considerations, and venues for building out your global network. Our guests today, Mr. Tony Quartararo from Spatial Networks and Mr. Stan Highsmith of Fulcrum (both representatives of GSF Small Business Partners) provide real-world experience and vignettes.

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-924941 Fri, 18 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 2713 business, international business, SOF, special operations, global sof 1 3 full false Are you ready to exit the aircraft? Are you ready to exit the aircraft? The GSF staff is back to talk about SOF for Life--a multi-faceted program that works to support SOF and SOF support who are transitioning from Active Duty. We talk about what the program entails (transition seminars, support in finding a career, wealth management), and the SOF for Life Survey, which had many findings--including the lack of medical, financial, and career prep that many respondents had when they left Active Duty. If you're leaving Active Duty within the next 2 years, we strongly recommend that you listen!

Support the show

]]> The GSF staff is back to talk about SOF for Life--a multi-faceted program that works to support SOF and SOF support who are transitioning from Active Duty. We talk about what the program entails (transition seminars, support in finding a career, wealth management), and the SOF for Life Survey, which had many findings--including the lack of medical, financial, and career prep that many respondents had when they left Active Duty. If you're leaving Active Duty within the next 2 years, we strongly recommend that you listen!

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-924123 Thu, 17 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 3891 military transition, special operations, sof, sof for life 1 2 full false How did this all happen? How did this all happen? We're beginning our podcast at the beginning, with a discussion of how the Global SOF Foundation started and got to where it is today. Today you'll hear from GSF President Stu Bradin, COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew, Director of International Engagements Rick Lamb, and your GSF podcast spirit guide, GSF Director of Marketing Chelsea Hamashin.

The crew is going to discuss how it became obvious that the GSF was needed, the challenges and victories of the early years, and what we're most excited about for the future. Enjoy!

Support the show

]]> We're beginning our podcast at the beginning, with a discussion of how the Global SOF Foundation started and got to where it is today. Today you'll hear from GSF President Stu Bradin, COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew, Director of International Engagements Rick Lamb, and your GSF podcast spirit guide, GSF Director of Marketing Chelsea Hamashin.

The crew is going to discuss how it became obvious that the GSF was needed, the challenges and victories of the early years, and what we're most excited about for the future. Enjoy!

Support the show

]]> Global SOF Foundation Buzzsprout-837548 Wed, 31 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -0400 3118 military, global sof, sof, special operations, defense 1 1 full false