Cleared Hot

Andy Vs. Michael - Round 3

Buckle up again everyone, we are stepping back into a role reversal, turning the microphone towards the man usually behind the scenes – show producer, Michael Shelton. I never know where these conversations are going to lead, since I am turning the questions over to Michael, a man with an internet search history that has likely landed him on a variety of watchlists. We covered a substantial bit of ground, from online sales coaches, the "king" of stolen valor, thoughts on modern art, a man su...

Forging Resilience - with Casey Hildreth

Casey Hildreth is a Christian, dedicated husband, and father to five. Casey carved a path of resilience and leadership through his 19-year tenure with the United States Army Special Operations Command, and since retiring in 2019, he has pivoted his focus towards nurturing the physical and mental fortitude of others. He currently serves as the Training Director at Cloud Defensive. We explored the vast spectrum of his career, the training methodologies he's championing, and how his experiences...

BUD/s duds and Emergency Surgeries

Today's episode kicks off by addressing a heartfelt and raw listener question, painting the picture of a 23-year-old man at the crossroads of his military career and personal life. The listener shares his turbulent journey from aspiring SEAL, battling through weight loss, smoking cessation, and the harsh realities of SEAL training, to facing a disheartening setback and feeling lost in a career path he never desired. Should he attempt training again, or should he move on? I close out the ep...

Focal Point - Navigating a Future with AI

In this episode of Focal Point, join hosts Mike Glover and Andy Stumpf as they delve into the emergence of Artificial Intelligence. As we stand on the cusp of a potential singularity, they explore the profound implications it holds for humanity, industry, and our day-to-day lives. From the exciting innovations to the ethical quandaries, we face a future where AI's involvement is nearly certain. Tune in for a deep dive into what the rise of AI means for society, the changing landscape of se...

Naval Special Warfare and Injuries - with Mike Glover

Mike Glover, renowned for his military and security expertise, joins the Cleared Hot Podcast today. His diverse background includes serving as a Green Beret in the U.S. Army Special Forces and excelling in the private security sector. Glover is the founder and CEO of Fieldcraft Survival, an organization that trains resilience and survival in worst-case scenarios. In this episode, we take a look into the Naval Special Warfare career, as well as the training required. We also cover being sho...

Life's Complexities and Modern Masculinity

The Tragic Tale of Mark: A listener, an Operations Manager in the oil and gas sector, shares the heart-wrenching story of his employee, Mark. Mark's life, marked by poor decision-making and personal struggles, leads to a tragic end, leaving the listener grappling with guilt and the impact of his decisions on Mark's young son. The Dilemma of Home and Change: Another listener, a long-time resident of Denver, contemplates relocating due to the city's drastic changes over 15 years. With two ch...

Generations, Politics, and Santa - with Vaughn Stumpf

This episode is a unique blend of serious discussion, personal stories, and light-hearted moments, political landscapes, family dynamics, and the joy of spreading cheer as Santa. We start our journey by reflecting on the wisdom and challenges of previous generations, exploring how their legacies shape our today. Then, we pivot to the future, discussing the hotly anticipated 2024 presidential election and its potential impact on our lives and communities. We took a deeper dive into the univ...

Who is More Toxic - Army or Prison?

I cannot believe that we live in a world where this is an actual discussion or conversation point, but here we are. My thoughts on the recent viral social media video discussing who is more toxic, someone in prison or someone in the military. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Sign up for the new G14 newsletter here: https://www.clearedhotpodcast.com/exclusive Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

The Flight Path to Success - with Paul 'Roscoe' White

Paul “Roscoe” White is a retired Air Force fighter pilot turned F35 instructor, championship-winning football coach, and dedicated father. Roscoe brings a wealth of experience from his military career, starting as an enlisted Airman and retiring as an officer, flying iconic jets like the F15E and F16. Paul shares invaluable insights from his latest book, "WORK HARD DONT SUCK: Strategies and Tactics for Loving with Honor, Character, and Discipline," a Hail Mary of wisdom for the younger gen...

Welcome to Focal Point - Episode 001

Where do you go to consume your news? Can we even call it that anymore? Is it actually the "news," or is it editorialized information designed to elicit a specific response? One of my favorite quotes comes from a recent conversation with Sebastian Junger, paraphrasing: "The role of the media is not to tell you what to think, but to let you know what to think about." In a sea of media resources designed to only tell you how to think, we are going to try something different. Our goal is to...

Special Operations Insights - with Jack Murphy & Dave Parke

In this episode, we are talking about the world of military special operations and its intersection with current social and political landscapes in the United States. Guests Jack Murphy and Dave Parke host the Team Room Podcast, and bring their rich military backgrounds to the table, offering unique insights. Both veterans of elite special operations units, they share their experiences and perspectives on how military training and experiences shape views on societal and political issues. W...

Thanks - Giving

It's not what happens to you, but what you do with it that matters." Whether you're facing personal struggles, professional setbacks, or the everyday hurdles of life, this episode is for you. It's a reminder that our power lies not in the events that befall us, but in how we choose to respond to them. The Cleared Hot Skateboard Deck: https://snakefarmco.com/collections/limited-time-designs/products/cleared-hot-podcast-2-0-deck  Explore and sign up for Starlink Service here: ⁠https://...

The Other Side of Psychedelics with Taylor Duckett

In today's episode, I sit down with Taylor Ducket, a 33-year-old husband and father with a compelling story that diverges from the usual narrative surrounding psychedelic usage. Taylor shares his journey, revealing the lesser-discussed, challenging aspects of his deep dive into psychedelics at 17. This conversation uncovers the harsh realities and potential downsides of psychedelic experiences, a topic often overshadowed by positive treatment stories. Taylor's story is a cautionary tale, i...

The Crossroads of Choice - Navigating Your life and Finding Your Path

We are going on a deep dive into the heart of life's pivotal decisions, guided by questions from listeners. The journey begins with a 26-year-old at a career and personal life crossroads, torn between a stable job in Geography and GIS and a longing for military service. This listener's struggle with family expectations and the quest for a more fulfilling path is a dilemma many face. Next, we shift gears to a 23-year-old UPS driver from rural Oregon, living a life many would envy yet feelin...

A Journey Beyond Borders - with Vincent Vargas

In this episode, we're joined by Vincent Vargas, a man whose life reads like an action-packed novel. Vincent takes us on a journey through his extraordinary experiences, starting with his time as an Army Ranger deployed in the Global War on Terror, a period that tested his mettle and shaped his worldview. Vincent discusses his new book "Borderline," a gripping account of his life and experiences as a member of the elite Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) team. Vincent then ...

Echoes of Valor - Sebastian Junger on the Bonds of Battle and the Spirit of Veterans Day

As Veterans Day approaches there is no better guest than Sebastian Junger, a journalist known for his profound connection to the soldier's experience and his frontline reporting in some of the world's most volatile war zones. Sebastian is able to offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who've served, reflecting on the deep bonds forged in the crucible of conflict. As we honor our veterans, Junger also introduces the Vet Town Hall project, his heartfelt initiative designed to provid...

Behind the Badge: Federal Crime-Fighting in the IRS - with Scott Daniels

Dive into the clandestine world of financial investigations with Scott Daniels, a seasoned Supervisory Special Agent from the Internal Revenue Service's Criminal Investigation division. With a rich career spanning over two decades, Scott has been at the forefront of unmasking sophisticated financial schemes and playing a pivotal role in the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces. From his early days in the Warren County Sheriff’s Department to leading critical task forces at the IRS, S...

Leap of Faith - Navigating Risks, Military Ambitions, and Life's Callings

In this episode we dive headfirst (pun intended) into the thrill and perils of skydiving, exploring the razor's edge between risk and respect in high-stakes hobbies. Then, our Q&A segment turns the mic over to you, the listeners: First up, a listener at the crossroads of life shares their journey from a stable job to enlisting in the Army's 18x Green Beret pipeline. Amidst the looming questions about meeting standards, fitting in, and preparing for the intense mental and physical demands, ...

Transition and Fostering Resilience - with Chris Gill and Michael Anthony

Chris Gill and Michael Anthony have diverse military backgrounds, and now spearhead impactful initiatives at Gratitude America, a non-profit dedicated to assisting military members, veterans, and their families in their transition to post-military life. Chris Gill, the Director of Operations at Gratitude America, speaks about his transformative expedition from being a Marine Corps helicopter crew chief to becoming a fervent advocate for veteran mental health and education. His narrative, l...

Bridging The Gap - Prepared vs. Paranoid

-A young father grapples with financial infidelity, strained family relationships, and battling personal demons. Andy explores the pathways toward self-forgiveness, financial recovery, and rebuilding trust with loved ones. -The complexity of a family coming to terms with a patriarch’s serious illness unfolds, as Andy sheds light on approaching delicate situations with understanding, respect, and unity. -Lastly, the seemingly controversial topic of concealed carry in a world perceived as ...

Frontline Chronicles - Unveiling the IDF Journey with Richard & Bernardo

Richard and Bernardo are two distinguished veterans of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), who have navigated the transition from civilian life in the US and later dedicated themselves to the defense of Israel amidst regional tensions. Richard, spurred by the antisemitism he encountered at Portland State University, found a new homeland in Israel despite initially knowing less than six words in Hebrew. His journey through the infantry to the reconnaissance brigade unveiled his relentless det...

Andy Vs. Michael - Round 2

Buckle up, everyone. In this episode we are stepping into a role reversal, turning the microphone towards the man usually behind the scenes – show producer, Michael Shelton. With a wide-ranging discussion of the novel 1984, and conspiracies about the wildfires in Maui, Car Jitsu, and where the current social progressive idealogy may lead us, we are going on a roller coaster of emotions, information, and insight. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Sign up for th...

From Cell Bars to CEO - with AG Gregoroff

AG Gregoroff isn't just the founder and CEO of Toehold Flip Flops - heralded as producers of the world’s highest quality flip flops - but a living testament to the power of radical transformation. From a troubled childhood and the dark corners of the California penal system to the liberating expanse of the open ocean, AG’s story is one of stark contrasts, unbreakable will, and the resolute belief in second chances. AG unfolds the gritty tales of his past; growing up amidst violence and cha...

Facing Darkness: Questions from the Frontlines of Life

In today's episode, we are diving headfirst into the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by listeners from around the world. From a distressed father in Israel grappling with the responsibility of taking up arms to defend his family, to a veteran pondering the teachings of violence to his children, and a question from a listener struggling to make sense of global tragedies while maintaining a sense of normalcy in their day-to-day life. These are all complex issues, and in the most trying time...

Redefining Fitness - with Craig 'Patty' Patterson

Craig "Patty" Patterson is the founder of the Madlab School of Fitness. We went deep into Patty's journey, uncovering the challenges he faced leaving the world of engineering and corporate life behind to reshape the landscape of the fitness industry business model. Patty candidly shares the inception of Madlab, the transformative power of community, and his transition from coaching to mentorship. Hear firsthand how he's combating the traditional pitfalls personal trainers face, from burnout ...

Demons, Anger, and Heartbreak

Today we are diving into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. One listener shared his ongoing battle with anger and its potential consequences for his relationship, while another reaches out for guidance in the aftermath of an unexpected breakup. Join us as we explore the tools and mindsets needed to confront personal challenges head-on and emerge stronger on the other side.    The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Sign up for the new G14 news...

Brokeback Hilltop - with John Barklow and John Dudley

We are diving deep into the roots of hunting, archery precision, and survival strategies. John Dudley, with his wealth of experience in archery, enlightens us on the developments in bowhunting, the pursuit of precision, and his illustrious journey in the sport, illuminating the intricacies and the passion fueling the archery world. Simultaneously, John Barklow, with his extensive background in outdoor survival and big game hunting, unpacks the complexities of sustainable hunting, navigation ...

Grappling with Grapes - Wine, Jiu Jitsu, and Legacies with Maynard James Keenan & Henry Akins

Maynard James Keenan is the lead singer of Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer, and the owner of Merkin Vineyards and Caduceus Cellars. Henry Akins is a celebrated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt instructor and Rickson Gracie’s third American black belt. Join us as Maynard and Henry unfold the profound connection with the meticulous craft of wine-making and how it intertwines with his musical journey. Whether you are a wine aficionado, a martial arts enthusiast, a music lover, or a passi...

Guardians of the Wild - With John Nores

John made an incredible journey from a small-town boy with a passion for nature to a celebrated warden with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. He was a founding member of California's Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET), a unit developed to combat environmentally destructive criminal operations. With a career spanning three decades, John shares his eclectic experiences, including the challenges and triumphs of leading high-risk operations, training special operation personnel, an...

You Are Not Alone

This entire episode is dedicated to a raw, revealing listener-submitted story that challenges the perceptions of success and resilience. From the glitz of professional victories to the shadowed valleys of personal turmoil, we get an unfiltered view into the complexities of a life riddled with failed relationships, infidelity, deception, and the numbing solace of alcohol. This isn’t just one person’s tale, it’s a stark reminder that beneath the veneer of outward accomplishments, many of us gr...

From Trauma to Triumph - with Travis Gribble

Travis Gribble is a 24-year law enforcement veteran with a story that will resonate with anyone who's faced adversity. From the streets of Michigan to the desert of Arizona, Travis' career in the force was filled with high-stakes situations and experiences that would leave deep imprints on his soul. But it was one fateful call in 2016 that would forever alter the course of his life. Travis offers a raw, unfiltered recount of his struggles with PTSD, the personal demons he wrestled with, an...

Michael Vs Andy - Round 1

Buckle up, everyone. In this episode we are stepping into a role reversal, turning the microphone towards the man usually behind the scenes – show producer, Michael Shelton. With a wide-ranging discussion that spans the technical details of grenade functioning to the provocative topic of cucking, and diving deep into life's intricate tapestry, we are going on a roller coaster of emotions, information, and insight. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Sign up for ...

World Records, Mount Everest, and the Toughest Races on Earth - with Tyler Carnevale

Tyler isn't just an avid ultra-endurance athlete; he's an 8x Guinness World Record holder, a seasoned high-altitude mountaineer, and someone who lives life in the realm of the extraordinary. With an educational background in engineering and geophysics from the University of Maryland and the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen, Tyler combines his passion for extreme sports with an insatiable curiosity for technology, evolutionary biology, and space exploration. Hear the inside scoop on the P...

Aging Warriors, Unsettling Neighbors, and Standing Up Right

In this special listener-submitted Q&A episode we dive into some personal and complex issues that confront us in our daily lives. From the battle against chronic pain and aging to managing unsettling discoveries about a neighbor, to addressing inappropriate comments made towards your loved ones. For the Aging Athlete: A 67-year-old listener is experiencing chronic pain that's taking a toll on his workouts and mental toughness. Can alternative treatments like stem cell therapy offer relief, ...

Clearing the Path - Mind, Body & Soul Fitness with Bill & Karianne Anthes of Between The Ears

Bill Anthes is a Special Forces veteran who with his wife Karianne, redefined the intersection of physical and mental health. Together they founded 'Between The Ears' – a groundbreaking approach that leverages physical fitness as a cornerstone for emotional and mental well-being. From running a state-of-the-art facility in New Jersey to remotely coaching clients globally, they're changing lives one workout at a time. Tune in as we explore the synergies between strength of body and strength o...

The Fight Against Human Trafficking - with Nic McKinley

Today we are going to dive into the world of counterintelligence and counter-human trafficking with Nic McKinley. From his time as an Air Force Pararescueman in U.S. Special Operations to his pivotal role within the CIA, McKinley's life is a testament to service, bravery, and commitment. What happens when a seasoned operative comes face to face with the grim reality of child trafficking? McKinley shares the compelling journey of founding DeliverFund, his passionate endeavor to end human traf...

From the SEAL Teams to Startups - with Todd Ehrlich

Todd Ehrlich is a former Navy SEAL turned serial entrepreneur. His journey is far from conventional; from dropping out of college to answer the call of duty, to leaving the Navy and creating multiple companies, including the incredibly successful Kill Cliff brand. Get a firsthand account of life as a SEAL in the high-tension environment of the mid-90s and how this unique experience provided Todd with perspectives that fueled his subsequent business ventures. Learn how he bootstrapped Kill ...

Between Two Trees - with Jack Osbourne

From Special Forces to Sovereign Soil - with Preston McCormick

In this episode I sit down with ex-Special Forces officer turned entrepreneur, Preston McCormick. After bravely serving his country, Preston made a foray into the legal cannabis farming industry in California, setting up shop on Sovereign Indian Tribal Land. What should have been a peaceful entrepreneurial endeavor soon took a harrowing turn. Preston recounts the shocking day when Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RSO) raided his legal cannabis farm, despite his prior efforts to verify it...

Lead the Charge - Unpacking Leadership

In this listener-submitted Q&A episode, I tackle two questions that touch on resilience, leadership, and the martial art that has made an impact on countless lives. The Aloha Roll jiu jitsu academy was devastated by the fires in Lahaina, what does it mean for one's mental and physical health, and how would it feel to lose such an integral part of oneself? Then, for all the service members and aspiring leaders out there, Andy shares his wealth of experience on leadership. Hear from someone ...

From the Edge to Enlightenment: A Firefighter’s Resilient Journey - with Rick Bucher

In this episode, we dive deep with Rick Bucher, a man whose life narrative reads like an adrenaline-packed novel. From daring adventures as a sports athlete to serving the community of Scottsdale with over 16,000 calls, Rick has witnessed the extremities of life. But it's not just his encounters with external dangers that make his story remarkable; it's the internal battles he's faced and conquered that truly inspire. From the precipice of despair following near-death experiences and grappli...

Passions, Pivots, and Perseverance

In this episode, there are two listener-submitted questions that delve deep into the challenges of life. First, from an 18-year-old in northern Alberta grappling with finding his passion and purpose in a small town. His desire to evolve as a person and to embrace challenges will resonate with many. How does one truly discover what sets their soul on fire? And how can personal growth be accelerated through adversity? Switching gears, a message from a former Air Force member who's been on a ...

Frontlines to Headlines: The Battle Beyond Combat with Jariko Denman & Jenna Bakken

Jariko Denman was born in Washington DC and raised as a military brat. He enlisted in the US Army in 1997, embarking on a path that led him all over the world. After joining the prestigious 75th Ranger Regiment, he served for 15 years, with combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan on 15 different occasions. From the role of a Weapons Squad Leader to that of a Rifle Platoon Sergeant and a Ranger Company First Sergeant, Jariko amassed an impressive 54 months of combat experience as part of a...

From Navy SEAL to Natural Resources - Coffee with Ryan Zinke

Today we sit down with the Representative from Montana, Ryan Zinke. From his roots in Bozeman to the halls of Congress, Zinke's journey is one marked by service, dedication and an unyielding passion for his home state. Mr. Zinke had a 23-year-long military career as a U.S. Navy SEAL. We discussed his deployments in Asia, his leadership at SEAL Teams SIX, his role in training future SEALs in the wake of 9/11, and his tenure in Congress, and his approach to energy, conservation, and tribal i...

Unleashing the Healing Power of Psychedelics - with Jesse Gould

Jesse Gould is an Army Ranger turned psychedelics advocate and the mind behind the Heroic Hearts Project. Join us as we explore Jesse's transformational experiences in Afghanistan, his battle with PTSD, and his unique path to recovery. Jesse’s dedication to the mental health of veterans is truly inspiring. We discuss the unconventional approach to therapy he champions: the use of ayahuasca. Jesse shares his personal experience with this plant medicine, the scientific research supporting it...

Life's Crossroads - From Deployments to Heartbreak

Question 1 is from an active-duty father of four girls, torn between his duty and the family he loves. How do you balance the demands of military life with the needs of his daughters, especially as he faces an upcoming deployment? Next, an email from a listener who's facing a series of personal and professional blows that have left him feeling defeated. His story is a reminder of life's unpredictable twists and turns. Lastly, the tackle the topic of heartbreak. Advise for a recent breaku...

Defying All Odds - A SEAL’s Unlikely Journey - with Remi Adeleke

Remi Adeleke is a man whose life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. Remi's story stretches from the throne of West Africa, through the streets of the Bronx, and into uniform with the US Navy SEALs. His journey is packed with lessons on leadership, resilience, and the importance of owning your mistakes. Remi served 13 years as a US Navy SEAL, facing some of the harshest environments known to man. He faced a unique set of challen...

Addiction and Acceptance

Today's episode focuses on two listener-submitted questions that touch the core of personal struggles and the human spirit. First, a nationwide issue that haunts many - coping with a loved one's addiction. How does one continue living a fulfilling life when a family member, in this case, a child, is spiraling out of control? In the second half, I address a rarely discussed feeling of shame associated with serving in the military but not having been deployed. This listener, like many others...

In the Crosshairs of National Security - with Chris Piehota

This episode is all about the world of national security and covert operations with retired FBI Agent, Chris Piehota. With a career spanning nearly a quarter of a century, at one point serving as one of six people who oversaw strategic and select daily operations for the entire FBI organization, Chris has a wealth of insights to share from his time spent safeguarding our nation. Chris is in a unique position to analyze where things have been, where things currently stand, and where things co...

Pack light and Fight Right

From the essentials of a fanny pack to the martial arts deemed valuable versus "Bulshitzu," to strategies for helping loved ones find their fitness groove, this episode covers a broad range of topics. First, we dive into the everyday carry philosophy and the essential items that go into my EDC fanny pack. This is for anyone trying to streamline their carry system, especially when pockets are not an option. Next, martial arts. My thoughts on the practices that have real-world application ...