JRE #1434 – Trevor Thompson

This podcast delves into the life and experiences of former Navy SEAL Trevor Thompson, revealing a captivating blend of military service, extreme sports, and introspective reflections. Provocative topics include the stark contrast between the realities of war and its portrayal in media, the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, the allure of extreme sports, and Thompson’s personal journey from artist to SEAL to coffee aficionado.

Underlying themes explore the complexities of war and its impact on mental health, the search for meaning and purpose outside of traditional paths, the importance of community and shared experiences, and the enduring power of passion and dedication.

Major Topics:

1. The Reality of War vs. Media Depictions:

• Thompson emphasizes the vast difference between the realities of war and its portrayal in movies and TV shows.
• He criticizes the media for misconstruing war for profit and agenda-pushing, often portraying events inaccurately.
• The podcast highlights the unique perspectives of veterans who have experienced firsthand the true nature of conflict.
• Thompson emphasizes the importance of sharing authentic stories to counter these inaccurate portrayals.

2. The Impact of War on Mental Health and Transition to Civilian Life:

• The podcast explores the enduring psychological effects of war, acknowledging the difficulty civilians have in understanding these experiences.
• Thompson discusses the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life and the difficulty of managing stress and finding purpose in a drastically different environment.
• The podcast highlights the role of community and shared experiences, especially among veterans, in providing support and aiding the reintegration process.
• Thompson emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding constructive outlets to manage stress, including activities like archery, base jumping, and martial arts.

3. The Allure of Extreme Sports:

• Thompson’s passion for skydiving, base jumping, and other extreme sports is discussed, revealing the thrill and cognitive load associated with these activities.
• He emphasizes the mental focus and discipline required to navigate these high-risk pursuits.
• The podcast touches on the potential therapeutic benefits of extreme sports for veterans, providing a way to channel adrenaline and manage stress.
• Thompson cautions against romanticizing extreme sports, emphasizing that they are life choices with serious consequences and should only be pursued by those genuinely drawn to them.

4. The Importance of Community and Shared Experiences:

• The podcast highlights the powerful bonds formed in the military and the importance of camaraderie, particularly in navigating challenging experiences.
• Thompson underscores the role of shared experiences, like hunting or martial arts, in fostering a sense of community and belonging.
• He describes how these shared activities can help individuals find a sense of purpose and support in their respective communities.
• The podcast highlights the importance of connecting with others who understand and appreciate the unique challenges and joys of these activities.

5. The Unexpected Path from Artist to SEAL:

• Thompson’s artistic background and his decision to leave art school to join the Navy SEALs are discussed, revealing a unique path driven by passion and a desire for challenge.
• The podcast highlights the unexpected ways in which seemingly divergent paths can converge, leading to unexpected fulfillment and purpose.
• Thompson’s story encourages listeners to embrace their passions and pursue their dreams, even if they seem unconventional or challenging.
• It emphasizes the importance of listening to your inner voice and making decisions based on your own values and aspirations.

6. The Unexpected Passion for Coffee:

• Thompson’s deep interest in coffee is explored, revealing his dedication to Black Rifle Coffee Company and his appreciation for the art of coffee roasting.
• The podcast delves into the unique culture of Black Rifle Coffee, a company built on supporting veterans and first responders.
• Thompson shares his experiences working for Black Rifle, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality coffee, community, and charitable initiatives.
• The podcast underscores the potential for finding passion and purpose in unexpected places, even in something as seemingly simple as coffee.

7. The Role of Mentorship and Coaching:

• Thompson recounts his experiences with mentors like John Dudley, a renowned archery coach, and shares insights into the importance of guidance and support in mastering skills.
• The podcast highlights the transformative impact of having experienced mentors who can provide instruction, encouragement, and a sense of community.
• Thompson emphasizes the role of coaching in developing mental fortitude, discipline, and the ability to perform under pressure.
• He underscores the importance of seeking out mentors who can provide valuable guidance and support on your individual journey.

8. The Challenge of Maintaining Mental Fortitude:

• The podcast delves into the mental challenges faced by veterans, particularly in transitioning back to civilian life and navigating the complexities of daily stressors.
• Thompson discusses the importance of maintaining mental discipline and self-awareness to prevent the intrusion of past trauma and anxieties.
• He highlights the importance of finding healthy coping mechanisms, such as physical activities, community engagement, and personal growth.
• The podcast emphasizes the necessity of seeking support and guidance when needed, acknowledging that mental health is an ongoing process that requires continual attention and care.

9. The Importance of Physical Training:

• Thompson highlights the significance of physical training for both mental and physical well-being, particularly for veterans and those engaging in demanding activities.
• He emphasizes the benefits of activities like running, martial arts, and archery, not only for physical fitness but also for building mental resilience and discipline.
• The podcast explores the connection between physical training and mental performance, highlighting the role of pushing limits and challenging oneself to achieve greater mental and physical strength.
• Thompson underscores the importance of finding physical activities that resonate with your individual interests and goals, fostering a lifelong commitment to health and well-being.

10. The Importance of Nutrition and Diet:

• Thompson discusses his experience with the carnivore diet and the impact of diet on overall health and performance.
• He shares his insights on the benefits of consuming high-quality animal protein, particularly for athletes and those seeking to optimize their physical capabilities.
• The podcast acknowledges the importance of finding a dietary approach that aligns with your individual needs and goals, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
• Thompson encourages listeners to explore different dietary options and consider the impact of food choices on their overall health and well-being.

11. The Debate on Women in the SEALs:

• The podcast delves into the ongoing discussion surrounding women in the SEALs, acknowledging the physical and mental demands of the training program.
• Thompson shares his perspective on the challenges of maintaining the program’s rigorous standards while promoting diversity and inclusion.
• He emphasizes the importance of evaluating the program’s goals and whether a shift in standards is necessary to achieve greater inclusivity.
• The podcast encourages listeners to engage in thoughtful discussions about these complex issues, recognizing the importance of balance between maintaining standards and promoting equal opportunity.

12. The Importance of Purpose and Meaning:

• Thompson’s journey highlights the importance of finding meaning and purpose beyond traditional career paths.
• He emphasizes the value of pursuing passions, whether it’s art, extreme sports, or hunting, as a source of fulfillment and identity.
• The podcast encourages listeners to embrace their unique talents and interests, recognizing that purpose can manifest in unexpected ways.
• It emphasizes the importance of aligning your actions with your values and finding activities that bring you a sense of purpose and satisfaction.

13. The Importance of Conservation and Responsible Hunting:

• Thompson’s passion for hunting is discussed, highlighting the importance of responsible practices and ethical considerations.
• He emphasizes the role of hunting in maintaining healthy wildlife populations and ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems.
• The podcast acknowledges the complexities of hunting, including the ethical and moral considerations involved.
• Thompson encourages listeners to learn about responsible hunting practices and to engage in thoughtful discussions about the role of hunting in conservation efforts.

14. The Importance of Mental Fortitude:

• The podcast highlights the role of mental fortitude in various aspects of Thompson’s life, from his military service to his pursuit of extreme sports and hunting.
• He emphasizes the importance of developing mental discipline and self-awareness to overcome challenges, manage stress, and achieve goals.
• Thompson discusses the various techniques he employs to maintain mental focus and composure, including breathing exercises, mantra repetition, and a deep understanding of his own mental processes.
• The podcast encourages listeners to cultivate their own mental fortitude, recognizing its importance in navigating life’s challenges and achieving personal fulfillment.

15. The Importance of Understanding Ourselves:

• Thompson’s experiences, both in the military and in his personal pursuits, underscore the importance of understanding our own strengths, weaknesses, and motivations.
• He emphasizes the value of self-reflection, introspection, and seeking out mentors and guidance to gain a deeper understanding of our own psychology and behaviors.
• The podcast encourages listeners to engage in a continual process of self-discovery and to embrace the challenges and opportunities for growth that come with self-awareness.
• It highlights the importance of developing a strong sense of self, recognizing our own values, and making choices that align with our authentic selves.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “One of the things that we talked about last night was the difference in perception between what war is actually like versus what civilians think wars like and how much of that stuff is sort of polluted by media, by movies, and television shows where they they paint this picture of it. And then the only people that know what it’s like are you, you guys. You’re the only ones who know, the people that were actually there.”
• “It’s only really frustrating when you can see that they’re that whomever put that together is doing it for their own profit and gain. they’re misconsturing something to to push an agenda, whatever it is, if it’s political, economic, who cares. Right. That that’s just unfortunate especially when they’re portraying things that are going on now — Yeah. — with dudes that are really alive still.”
• “But the thing is if you made it the same age, like, if you first of all, don’t make voting 18. No. It’s a terrible idea. All these fucking people, they’re saying voting should be 16. Fuck you. Yeah. Wasn’t didn’t Nancy Pelosi said that? I think so. I think she said 16. But when I was 16, I was a champ. I I really was. I was one of the dumbest fucking human beings on the plan.”
• “And I think you habituated too. Right? Like, you create these habits of, oh, that stresses me out. Fuck that guy. Right. Oh, man. Oh, man. Oh, man. And you’re just piling it up on, you know, the shelves in your head as opposed to, like, I’m relatively even cute about a lot of things.”
• “But, like, I I’ve taught combat rifle and pistol along with other people, and it is exactly like that. That’s the kind of stuff we teach. What do you teach like, what is the the process of keeping your shit together? It’s different for every weapon system. Mhmm. But it’s the exact same as, like, you just said with the bow or I just said with the bow. You talk your stuff through the steps out loud, and it doesn’t let all the outside bullshit getting away of pulling the trigger the right way.”