Pineland Underground artwork

Pineland Underground

124 episodes - English - Latest episode: 16 days ago -

The official podcast of the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School at Fort Liberty, North Carolina. SGM Riley and MAJ Holzmann embark on a journey to provide the best podcast in the military with bi-monthly relentless awesomeness. Real. Bold. Un-restricted.

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Episodes

Un-blurring the Truth E5 Cognitive Bias Mitigation and Sound Critical Thinking

March 01, 2022 19:20 - 10 minutes - 11.9 MB

E. 5 – Cognitive Bias Mitigation and Sound Critical Thinking In this episode we acquire a better understanding of what cognitive biases are and how to reduce its impact on us, and then discuss ways to strengthen our critical-thinking and decision-making skills; all so we formulate more informed opinions and make more balanced decisions.

Un-blurring the Truth E. 5 – Cognitive Bias Mitigation and Sound Critical Thinking to Combat Mis-Disinformation

March 01, 2022 19:20 - 10 minutes - 11.9 MB

E. 5 – Cognitive Bias Mitigation and Sound Critical Thinking In this episode we acquire a better understanding of what cognitive biases are and how to reduce its impact on us, and then discuss ways to strengthen our critical-thinking and decision-making skills; all so we formulate more informed opinions and make more balanced decisions.

Un-blurring the Truth E4 Synthetic Media

March 01, 2022 19:18 - 8 minutes - 9.79 MB

This episode focuses on the growing threat of Deep Fakes.  We provide background on when it became prevalent in our society, how it’s often used against us, and tangible guidelines to identify it so we aren’t so easily fooled.

Un-blurring the Truth E. 4 – Synthetic Media – also Known as Deep Fakes

March 01, 2022 19:18 - 8 minutes - 9.79 MB

This episode focuses on the growing threat of Deep Fakes.  We provide background on when it became prevalent in our society, how it’s often used against us, and tangible guidelines to identify it so we aren’t so easily fooled.

Un-blurring the Truth E3 Logical Fallacies

March 01, 2022 19:17 - 9 minutes - 11.2 MB

During this episode we shine a light on the various types of logical fallacies that are often used against us, and then share examples of what it looks like, so we can mitigate its’ impact. 

Un-blurring the Truth E. 3 – Logical Fallacies used by Mis-Disinformation

March 01, 2022 19:17 - 9 minutes - 11.2 MB

During this episode we shine a light on the various types of logical fallacies that are often used against us, and then share examples of what it looks like, so we can mitigate its’ impact. 

Un-blurring the Truth E. 2 – The Red Flags of Mis-Disinformation

March 01, 2022 19:15 - 9 minutes - 10.8 MB

For this episode we share numerous warning signs to be on the look for, so that we develop sharper awareness and recognition of when MISDIS platforms are being used against us.

Un-blurring the Truth E2 Red Flags

March 01, 2022 19:15 - 9 minutes - 10.8 MB

For this episode we share numerous warning signs to be on the look for, so that we develop sharper awareness and recognition of when MISDIS platforms are being used against us.

Un-Blurring the Truth E1 The Basics

March 01, 2022 19:13 - 11 minutes - 13 MB

In the inaugural episode we highlight the differences between misinformation and disinformation (MISDIS) and discuss the different types used against us.  We then study the short-term and long-term consequences, and wrap it up by investigating the environment in which it flourishes – demonstrating why it’s so important for us to protect ourselves and our families.

Un-Blurring the Truth E. 1 – The Basics of Mis-Disinformation

March 01, 2022 19:13 - 11 minutes - 13 MB

In the inaugural episode we highlight the differences between misinformation and disinformation (MISDIS) and discuss the different types used against us.  We then study the short-term and long-term consequences, and wrap it up by investigating the environment in which it flourishes – demonstrating why it’s so important for us to protect ourselves and our families.

Back to the Future | LTG(R) Tovo Reflects on the Cold War and the Future of Army SOF

February 25, 2022 18:09 - 1 hour - 69.9 MB

We had the honor of having LTG(R) Ken Tovo back at the Falcon Snail Pub to record a new episode of Pineland Underground. We discussed the modern geopolitical battlefield, the daily, and weekly life of a general, life lessons and his thoughts of the fundamentals of leaderships that transcend the tactical to strategic levels. His precision in speech never ceases to impress. Email Us! [email protected] USAJFKSWCS Instagram Special Warfare Center (@u.s.armyswcs) • Instagram photo...

Forged In Fire - A Warrior's Recovery, Shifting Mindset & Banana Spiders

February 04, 2022 19:32 - 1 hour - 64.8 MB

On today's episode we are joined with SGM Chuck Ritter, SGM Jimmy Dauteuil and MAJ James Blackburn. In this episode we hear the story of SGM Ritter's actions in combat, his road to recovery following his injuries and his drive to get back into the fight. We discuss 'shifting mindset' - from failing Bowling Class at community college to leading Green Berets in battle. Stories from Robin Sage, it's never cool to be ignorant, and knowing the difference between Army Special Forces and other Speci...

Forged In Fire | A Warrior's Recovery, Shifting Mindset & Banana Spiders

February 04, 2022 19:32 - 1 hour - 64.8 MB

On today's episode we are joined with SGM Chuck Ritter, SGM Jimmy Dauteuil and MAJ James Blackburn. In this episode we hear the story of SGM Ritter's actions in combat, his road to recovery following his injuries and his drive to get back into the fight. We discuss 'shifting mindset' - from failing Bowling Class at community college to leading Green Berets in battle. Stories from Robin Sage, it's never cool to be ignorant, and knowing the difference between Army Special Forces and other Speci...

Forged In Fire | Mindset, Recovery and Perseverance

February 04, 2022 19:32 - 1 hour - 64.8 MB

On today's episode we are joined with SGM Chuck Ritter, SGM Jimmy Dauteuil and MAJ James Blackburn. In this episode we hear the story of SGM Ritter's actions in combat, his road to recovery following his injuries and his drive to get back into the fight. We discuss 'shifting mindset' - from failing Bowling Class at community college to leading Green Berets in battle. Stories from Robin Sage, it's never cool to be ignorant, and knowing the difference between Army Special Forces and other Speci...

Forged In Fire | SGM Chuck Ritter. Mindset, Recovery and Perseverance

February 04, 2022 19:32 - 1 hour - 64.8 MB

On today's episode, we are joined by SGM Chuck Ritter, SGM Jimmy Dauteuil, and MAJ James Blackburn. In this episode, we hear the story of SGM Ritter's actions in combat, his road to recovery following his injuries, and his drive to get back into the fight. We discuss 'shifting mindset' - from failing Bowling Class at community college to leading Green Berets in battle. Stories to Robin Sage, it's never cool to be ignorant and knowing the difference between Army Special Forces and other Speci...

Silicon Valley and SOF / Driving Innovation

January 21, 2022 06:00 - 1 hour - 58.6 MB

On today’s episode of Pineland Underground we sit down with Mr. Bill Warner, member of the renowned Naval Postgraduate School Foundation Advisory Council. We discuss the drive for innovation through collaboration across Silicon Valley and Special Operations. We dive into Applied Design for Innovation at the Naval Postgraduate School, thoughts on Cyber and China, and the “innovation engine” as it applies to startups, Stanford, and SOF.

Silicon Valley and SOF | Driving Innovation

January 21, 2022 06:00 - 1 hour - 58.6 MB

On today’s episode of Pineland Underground we sit down with Mr. Bill Warner, member of the renowned Naval Postgraduate School Foundation Advisory Council. We discuss the drive for innovation through collaboration across Silicon Valley and Special Operations. We dive into Applied Design for Innovation at the Naval Postgraduate School, thoughts on Cyber and China, and the “innovation engine” as it applies to startups, Stanford, and SOF.

Creating the next generation of SOF leaders

January 07, 2022 06:00 - 57 minutes - 53.2 MB

The MSG David K. Thuma Noncommissioned Officers Academy - NCOA is tasked with training disciplined NCO’s capable of executing full spectrum Special Operations in complex and ambiguous environments. In this episode we are joined by three NCOA instructors from each of the Special Forces, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations regiments.  They discuss what it’s like to work at the SWCS NCOA and teach soldiers in order to develop competent and adaptive ARSOF leaders through progressive prof...

Digital Dunkirk | Exclusive insight into the Afghan Evacuation

December 17, 2021 18:19 - 1 hour - 70.1 MB

In this episode, we are joined by COL(R) Fred Dummar, a retired Special Forces officer who commanded at every level in Special Forces from Captain to Colonel, with multiple combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Having spent a significant amount of time in Afghanistan himself on active duty and as a defense contractor, COL(R) Dummar discusses the evacuation from Afghanistan and how he aided in the efforts to help get Afghan SOF members out of the country amidst all the chaos.  

Leaving Afghanistan - Evacuating Afghan SOF

December 17, 2021 18:19 - 1 hour - 70.1 MB

In this episode, we are joined by COL(R) Fred Dummar, a retired Special Forces officer who commanded at every level in Special Forces from Captain to Colonel, with multiple combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Having spent a significant amount of time in Afghanistan himself on active duty and as a defense contractor, COL(R) Dummar discusses the evacuation from Afghanistan and how he aided in the efforts to help get Afghan SOF members out of the country amidst all the chaos.  

Competitive Banter - A human behavioral phenomenon

December 15, 2021 14:38 - 1 hour - 58.7 MB

In this episode we are joined by Rafi Kohan, the author of “The Arena” which is a deep dive into wide ranging and interdisciplinary examination of the modern American sports stadium. Rafi is currently researching for his upcoming book on competitive banter a.k.a. talking trash, a human behavioral phenomenon that has existed throughout time, across cultures, and across the world.

Talking Trash & Special Operations | A Look Inside this Human Phenomenon

December 15, 2021 14:38 - 1 hour - 58.7 MB

In this episode we are joined by Rafi Kohan, the author of “The Arena” which is a deep dive into wide ranging and interdisciplinary examination of the modern American sports stadium. Rafi is currently researching for his upcoming book on competitive banter a.k.a. talking trash, a human behavioral phenomenon that has existed throughout time, across cultures, and across the world.

A Warrior’s Journey | From Surviving Oppression to Freeing the Oppressed

November 24, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 78.9 MB

Today we are joined Green Beret Master Sergeant (Retired) Tu Lam, the inspiration behind Call of Duty: Modern Warfare’s Operator Rōnin (浪人) and founder of Ronin Tactics. Tu shares his story of escaping oppression in communist Vietnam and his road to earning the coveted Green Beret, his time serving as a Special Forces soldier, his post-military career and his return to the JFK Special Warfare Center and School, and sharpening the Warrior way of life.

A Warrior’s Journey – From Surviving Oppression to Freeing the Oppressed

November 24, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 78.9 MB

Today we are joined Green Beret Master Sergeant (Retired) Tu Lam, the inspiration behind Call of Duty: Modern Warfare’s Operator Rōnin (浪人) and founder of Ronin Tactics. Tu shares his story of escaping oppression in communist Vietnam and his road to earning the coveted Green Beret, his time serving as a Special Forces soldier, his post-military career and his return to the JFK Special Warfare Center and School, and sharpening the Warrior way of life.

Countering Misinformation and Disinformation

October 22, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 65.3 MB

Today we are joined by Colonel Bobby Sidell, the Command Psychologist for the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School to discuss finding clarity and critical thinking through malign Misinformation-Disinformation (MISDIS). Colonel Sidell discusses SWCS’ new curriculum focused on developing sharper awareness and recognition of MISDIS platforms and the environments which nurture it, means to inoculate ourselves against the rising threat, and the execution of proven countermeasures to ...

Information Management in the Production of Special Operations

October 08, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 70.7 MB

Today we are joined by Major Stu Gallagher, Special Operations Forces Management Information System or SOFMIS. The mission of the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (SWCS) is to produce our world-class Army Special Operations Force Soldiers. The discussion centers around how SOFMIS improving how the organization it collects, manages and analyzes information to allow the organization to see itself and the Soldiers that it trains. Major Gallagher explores how SOFMIS is illuminat...

(Knowledge Wins) The Kill Chain | Defending America

June 18, 2021 04:00 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MB

Today we are joined by Christian Brose, author of “The Kill Chain - Defending America in the Future of High-Tech Warfare.” We open with Mr. Brose explaining how his time on the Senate Armed Services Committee led him to author this book. He discusses with our host how the changing nature of conflict has eroded traditional U.S. military supremacy. The twin problems are the slowness of the US military to modernize and incorporate new technology and the growing military threat posed by rivals, ...

The Kill Chain – Defending America

June 18, 2021 04:00 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MB

Today we are joined by Christian Brose, author of “The Kill Chain - Defending America in the Future of High-Tech Warfare.” We open with Mr. Brose explaining how his time on the Senate Armed Services Committee led him to author this book. He discusses with our host how the changing nature of conflict has eroded traditional U.S. military supremacy. The twin problems are the slowness of the US military to modernize and incorporate new technology and the growing military threat posed by rivals, ...

The Kill Chain | Defending America

June 18, 2021 04:00 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MB

Today we are joined by Christian Brose, author of “The Kill Chain - Defending America in the Future of High-Tech Warfare.” We open with Mr. Brose explaining how his time on the Senate Armed Services Committee led him to author this book. He discusses with our host how the changing nature of conflict has eroded traditional U.S. military supremacy. The twin problems are the slowness of the US military to modernize and incorporate new technology and the growing military threat posed by rivals, ...

Defeating ISIS in Syria | Lessons Learned from the SOJTF Commander

May 28, 2021 04:00 - 31 minutes - 29.5 MB

Today we are joined by the commander of the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare and School, Maj. General Patrick Roberson to discusses the lessons learned in Syria. A key theme is the complex nature of fighting in Syria, both to win the war on the ground, and to win the narrative battle. Also covered is the increasing Great Power Competition between the US, Russian and Iranian governments, each attempting to expand their influence in the region. The conversation is rounded out...

Lessons Learned in Syria

May 28, 2021 04:00 - 31 minutes - 29.5 MB

Today we are joined by the commander of the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare and School, Maj. General Patrick Roberson to discusses the lessons learned in Syria. A key theme is the complex nature of fighting in Syria, both to win the war on the ground, and to win the narrative battle. Also covered is the increasing Great Power Competition between the US, Russian and Iranian governments, each attempting to expand their influence in the region. The conversation is rounded out...

(Knowledge Wins) Defeating ISIS in Syria | Lessons Learned from the SOJTF Commander

May 28, 2021 04:00 - 31 minutes - 29.5 MB

Today we are joined by the commander of the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare and School, Maj. General Patrick Roberson to discusses the lessons learned in Syria. A key theme is the complex nature of fighting in Syria, both to win the war on the ground, and to win the narrative battle. Also covered is the increasing Great Power Competition between the US, Russian and Iranian governments, each attempting to expand their influence in the region. The conversation is rounded out...

SOF Resources for a Healthy Family

April 30, 2021 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

Today we are joined again by Colonel Robert Sidell, the Command Psychologist for the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School to discuss the SOF family programs seminar, and the importance of family wellness. COL Sidell opens by explaining the necessity of a good work-life balance and allowing service members to bring their best performance to work. The conversation is then expanded by discussing support resources for family members or Soldiers who have lost a team member....

(Knowledge Wins) SOF Resources for a Healthy Family

April 30, 2021 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

Today we are joined again by Colonel Robert Sidell, the Command Psychologist for the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School to discuss the SOF family programs seminar, and the importance of family wellness. COL Sidell opens by explaining the necessity of a good work-life balance and allowing service members to bring their best performance to work. The conversation is then expanded by discussing support resources for family members or Soldiers who have lost a team member....

(Knowledge Wins) SOF Resources for Mental Wellness

April 16, 2021 04:00 - 22 minutes - 21.2 MB

Today we are joined by Colonel Robert Sidell, the Command Psychologist for the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School to discuss executive coaching, professional wellness and development. We open with COL Sidell on why he established the Soldier Wellness and Family Wellness series. We follow this by discussing the traditional stigma attached to seeking mental help and how the new initiatives have built momentum. The conversation is rounded out by giving out information f...

SOF Resources for Mental Wellness

April 16, 2021 04:00 - 22 minutes - 21.2 MB

Today we are joined by Colonel Robert Sidell, the Command Psychologist for the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School to discuss executive coaching, professional wellness and development. We open with COL Sidell on why he established the Soldier Wellness and Family Wellness series. We follow this by discussing the traditional stigma attached to seeking mental help and how the new initiatives have built momentum. The conversation is rounded out by giving out information f...

(Knowledge Wins) Clear Skies | An Exclusive Look inside the Special Forces Military Free Fall School

April 02, 2021 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.7 MB

Today we are joined by Major Derrick Taylor, commander of B Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne), Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ. MAJ Taylor discusses Military Free Fall (MFF) school and what it does for SOF. We first begin with the history of MFF in the US and the tactical benefits it brings. We then discuss the components of MFF Operations at the school house, beginning with students jumping in tandem with a trainer and progressing to jumping solo with equipment....

Clear Skies | An Exclusive Look inside the Special Forces Military Free Fall School

April 02, 2021 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.7 MB

Today we are joined by Major Derrick Taylor, commander of B Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne), Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ. MAJ Taylor discusses Military Free Fall (MFF) school and what it does for SOF. We first begin with the history of MFF in the US and the tactical benefits it brings. We then discuss the components of MFF Operations at the school house, beginning with students jumping in tandem with a trainer and progressing to jumping solo with equipment....

Military Free Fall School

April 02, 2021 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.7 MB

Today we are joined by Major Derrick Taylor, commander of B Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne), Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ. MAJ Taylor discusses Military Free Fall (MFF) school and what it does for SOF. We first begin with the history of MFF in the US and the tactical benefits it brings. We then discuss the components of MFF Operations at the school house, beginning with students jumping in tandem with a trainer and progressing to jumping solo with equipment....

(Knowledge Wins) SOF Civil Affairs in Modern Conflict

March 19, 2021 04:00 - 29 minutes - 26.8 MB

Today we conclude our podcast with Major Travis Clemens, a Civil Affairs Company Commander, discussing his article about Special Operations Forces and Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition. MAJ Clemens opens with discussing the modern forms of Armed Conflict, such as foreign sponsored insurgencies or the construction of military infrastructure in politically disputed locations. A key theme is how 21st century conflict is often, but not always, defined by asymmetrical clashes between the G...

SOF Civil Affairs in Modern Conflict

March 19, 2021 04:00 - 29 minutes - 26.8 MB

Today we conclude our podcast with Major Travis Clemens, a Civil Affairs Company Commander, discussing his article about Special Operations Forces and Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition. MAJ Clemens opens with discussing the modern forms of Armed Conflict, such as foreign sponsored insurgencies or the construction of military infrastructure in politically disputed locations. A key theme is how 21st century conflict is often, but not always, defined by asymmetrical clashes between the G...

PSYOP Testimonial, Part 2

March 11, 2021 15:16 - 18 minutes - 16.7 MB

Today we are joined by the commander of 7th Battalion, 4th Psychological Operations Group LTC Engelmeier to discuss her path that led to becoming an officer in PSYOPS.

(Knowledge Wins) SOF Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition

March 05, 2021 05:00 - 30 minutes - 28.4 MB

Today we are joined by Major Travis Clemens, a Civil Affairs Company Commander, to discuss his published article about Special Operations Forces and Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition. MAJ Clemens opens by describing what motivated him to write this article and explains how the joint concepts (integrated campaigning, operations in the information environment and human aspects of military operation) provided the foundation for his research. In discussing how the U.S. should counter Chin...

SOF Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition

March 05, 2021 05:00 - 30 minutes - 28.4 MB

Today we are joined by Major Travis Clemens, a Civil Affairs Company Commander, to discuss his published article about Special Operations Forces and Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition. MAJ Clemens opens by describing what motivated him to write this article and explains how the joint concepts (integrated campaigning, operations in the information environment and human aspects of military operation) provided the foundation for his research. In discussing how the U.S. should counter Chin...

Transitioning from Military Service

February 19, 2021 05:00 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MB

Today we are joined by SFC Andrew Stamp, the program director for Project JANUS, an initiative designed to help Soldiers transition from military service. In SFC Stamp’s experience he has seen Soldiers have 2 years to transition, and others with only 4 months. In SFC Stamp’s experience, the more time the better, because it allows the Soldier to receive more help from JANUS; resume assistance, survivor benefit plans, life insurance options etc. SFC Stamp and his team are committed to helping ...

(Knowledge Wins) Transitioning from Military Service

February 19, 2021 05:00 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MB

Today we are joined by SFC Andrew Stamp, the program director for Project JANUS, an initiative designed to help Soldiers transition from military service. In SFC Stamp’s experience he has seen Soldiers have 2 years to transition, and others with only 4 months. In SFC Stamp’s experience, the more time the better, because it allows the Soldier to receive more help from JANUS; resume assistance, survivor benefit plans, life insurance options etc. SFC Stamp and his team are committed to helping ...

Surviving Selection

February 05, 2021 05:00 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MB

Today we are joined by the Commander of the 1st Special Warfare Training Group, COL Stuart Farris. The COL discusses selection for anyone considering joining Special Operations, both the content purpose of ARSOF Selection are covered. Key points include that ARSOF doesn’t look for the “best” people, ARSOF looks for the “right” people. To be selected a candidate must have a healthy combination of physical and mental attributes. The COL also urges that Soldiers who are not selected don’t think...

(Knowledge Wins) Dominating Selection | How to Prepare & Perform at ARSOF Assessment and Selection

February 05, 2021 05:00 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MB

Today we are joined by the Commander of the 1st Special Warfare Training Group, COL Stuart Farris. The COL discusses selection for anyone considering joining Special Operations, both the content purpose of ARSOF Selection are covered. Key points include that ARSOF doesn’t look for the “best” people, ARSOF looks for the “right” people. To be selected a candidate must have a healthy combination of physical and mental attributes. The COL also urges that Soldiers who are not selected don’t think...

Dominating Selection | How to Prepare & Perform at ARSOF Assessment and Selection

February 05, 2021 05:00 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MB

Today we are joined by the Commander of the 1st Special Warfare Training Group, COL Stuart Farris. The COL discusses selection for anyone considering joining Special Operations, both the content purpose of ARSOF Selection are covered. Key points include that ARSOF doesn’t look for the “best” people, ARSOF looks for the “right” people. To be selected a candidate must have a healthy combination of physical and mental attributes. The COL also urges that Soldiers who are not selected don’t think...

(Knowledge Wins) From Merchant Marine to PSYOP

January 22, 2021 05:00 - 28 minutes - 26.5 MB

Today we are joined by the commander of the 8th Psychological Operations Group COL Mushtare to discuss the path that led him to becoming an officer in PSYOP. We open with the COL’s transition from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy to becoming an Army Engineer Officer. After meeting a PSYOP MAJ at a FT Bragg ARSOF Fair, he became interested in PSYOP and decided to pursue it as his career. PYSOP was initially not on his mind, but after doing deeper research into their tasks and functions, the C...