18-Feb-19
#1247 – Andy Stumpf
This podcast features a captivating conversation with Andy Stumpf, a retired Navy SEAL and wingsuit world record holder. The episode delves into his military experiences, the impact of traumatic brain injuries, and his passion for risky pursuits. Stumpf’s candid reflections on outrage culture, the unique bond of military brotherhood, and the mental challenges of transitioning back to civilian life offer valuable insights into a world often shrouded in mystique. Provocative discussions on topics like veteran suicide, the dangers of base jumping, the benefits of Jiu-Jitsu, and the complexities of global conflict leave listeners with a deeper understanding of Stumpf’s perspective and the critical issues facing our society.
Topics Discussed:
- Outrage Culture and Military Perspective:
- Stumpf highlights the contrast between the military’s clear-cut sense of importance and the often-exaggerated outrage culture prevalent in civilian life.
- He attributes this to the military’s exposure to life-or-death situations, recalibrating one’s perspective on what truly matters.
- Stumpf’s experience transitioning back to civilian life after service highlights the jarring disconnect in priorities and values.
- He emphasizes how the hyper-sensitivity and entitlement of outrage culture can make navigating everyday life confusing for those used to a more pragmatic and mission-oriented environment.
- The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):
- Stumpf’s personal experience with TBI, stemming from a gunshot wound and exposure to explosive blasts, reveals the devastating long-term effects it can have.
- He discusses the difficulty in diagnosing and treating TBI, particularly due to limitations in imaging technology for those with metal fragments in their bodies.
- Stumpf emphasizes that TBI can manifest in a variety of ways, even from seemingly minor incidents, and its impact can extend far beyond physical symptoms, affecting mental health and behavior.
- The podcast highlights the rising awareness of TBI’s prevalence and its connection to veteran suicide, underscoring the need for increased research and support for those affected.
- The Allure and Risks of Base Jumping and Wingsuit Flying:
- Stumpf, a wingsuit world record holder, candidly discusses the thrill-seeking nature of his chosen sports, acknowledging the inherent risks associated with them.
- He emphasizes the difference in risk levels between skydiving and base jumping, explaining the factors that contribute to the latter’s higher danger, including limited altitude and the complexities of wingsuit operation.
- Stumpf shares the emotional toll of losing a close friend in a base jumping accident, prompting him to pause his own involvement in the sport, showcasing the personal impact of these activities.
- The podcast explores the motivations behind extreme sports, with Stumpf attributing his pursuit of adrenaline-fueled activities to his desire to replicate the clarity and focus he experienced in combat.
- The Benefits of Jiu-Jitsu:
- Stumpf credits Jiu-Jitsu with helping him manage the stress and anxieties of civilian life, offering a similar sense of focus and purpose as his military service.
- He explains how the intense physical and mental engagement of Jiu-Jitsu training, simulating real-life scenarios of physical confrontation, can help clear the mind and create mental space.
- Stumpf emphasizes the importance of drilling and consistent practice in Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting how repetition builds muscle memory and allows for intuitive responses in high-pressure situations.
- The podcast touches on the humbling nature of Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing how the sport can challenge ego and provide valuable insights into one’s limitations and strengths.
- The Influence of Social Media:
- Stumpf expresses concern about the role of social media in fueling division and conflict, citing the tactics of Russian troll farms in manipulating online discourse.
- He criticizes the tendency towards extreme polarization and the spread of misinformation, particularly in the context of political debates and social movements.
- Stumpf highlights the detrimental effect of constant outrage and hostility, creating a climate of distrust and animosity.
- He emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue and a more nuanced understanding of complex issues, promoting tolerance and empathy instead of demonizing those with opposing viewpoints.
- The Challenges of Veteran Transition and Mental Health:
- Stumpf discusses the difficulty in distinguishing between TBI and PTSD, highlighting the overlapping symptoms and the need for tailored treatment approaches.
- He advocates for a more holistic understanding of mental health challenges among veterans, acknowledging the role of TBI alongside PTSD.
- The podcast explores the struggle of veterans to adjust to civilian life, losing the sense of purpose and camaraderie they experienced in service.
- Stumpf emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems to help veterans navigate the transition back to civilian life and address the mental health challenges they may face.
- The Importance of Second Amendment Rights and Gun Control:
- Stumpf, a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, argues for a nuanced approach to gun control, prioritizing responsibility over outright bans.
- He emphasizes the need for increased safety measures and responsible gun ownership, including the use of safes and proper storage of firearms.
- Stumpf highlights the importance of interagency communication and information sharing to prevent individuals with criminal backgrounds or mental health issues from accessing firearms.
- The podcast delves into the complex issue of mental health and its connection to gun violence, advocating for increased resources and support for those struggling with mental health challenges.
- The Role of the Military in a Changing World:
- Stumpf expresses concern about the growing threat of extremist ideologies like ISIS and the importance of a strong and well-equipped military to counter them.
- He acknowledges the limitations of the US military in terms of sustaining long-term presence and infrastructure in conflict zones, highlighting the challenges in achieving lasting peace.
- Stumpf advocates for a more strategic and surgical approach to military intervention, focusing on eradicating ideologies rather than simply relocating them.
- The podcast highlights the importance of critical thinking and open dialogue within the military, encouraging a diverse range of perspectives to inform decision-making.
- The Impact of War on Individual Lives:
- Stumpf reflects on the profound impact of his military service on his life, highlighting both the challenges and the valuable lessons he learned.
- He shares his personal experience of being wounded in combat and how it forced him to confront his mortality and consider a future beyond military service.
- Stumpf emphasizes the complex emotional toll of war, acknowledging the prevalence of anger, depression, and a sense of purposelessness that veterans often face.
- He underscores the importance of seeking support and finding ways to cope with the traumas of war, advocating for a more compassionate understanding of the mental health challenges veterans face.
- The Importance of Perspective and Empathy:
- Stumpf emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding when approaching complex issues, urging listeners to avoid quick judgments and engage in respectful dialogue.
- He advocates for recognizing the humanity of those with different viewpoints, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and has the potential to change and grow.
- The podcast highlights the importance of critical thinking and challenging one’s own assumptions, encouraging a more nuanced and compassionate approach to social and political issues.
- Stumpf underscores the need for a more balanced and informed perspective on events, advocating for responsible media consumption and a willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints.
- The Power of Podcasts:
- Stumpf highlights the transformative power of podcasts in offering a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.
- He acknowledges the influence of Joe Rogan’s podcast on his decision to launch his own show, “Cleared Hot.”
- Stumpf emphasizes the benefits of podcasting as a cathartic outlet for introspection and dialogue, encouraging listeners to engage with different perspectives and learn from the experiences of others.
- The podcast underscores the accessibility and reach of podcasts, making them a valuable tool for education, entertainment, and fostering understanding.
Memorable Quotes:
- “The beauty of that is most of the time I was serving, so it paid 0 attention to any of it. Right. The disaster part of that is when you come off the off ramp, you know, out of service — Yeah. — and you go, what happened? Yeah. What happened to the environment that I left?”
- “I think there might be some connection there. But I just I just think that the removal of the noise that bombards everybody all day long, even for a little bit, helps you It’s a you know, you you have a iPad or not iPad iPhone and headset headphones for sure. Right?”
- “I just think that the the removal of the noise that bombards everybody all day long, even for a little bit, helps you It’s a you know, you you have a iPad or not iPad iPhone and headset headphones for sure. Right?”
- “The problem is I would wanna come off the bench. Of course. The problem is is if that happens, And I’m not I guarantee you, I’m not the only 1 that feels like that. I’m gonna get involved. Then it’s gonna be a serious problem for those individuals because I’d give my military career C across the board average. There’s absolutely nothing spectacular about my career. I’d done more than some way less than others. But I’ve sacrificed enough that I’m not gonna allow those people to tear us apart.”
- “I’m grateful that they live in a place where they don’t have that great understanding. Because like I said, they have the space to be confused. They’re not pushed under a thumb. They’re not being told you have to say this or it’s gonna be your fucking head in the square. Right.”