JRE #1885 – Mike Sarraille & Andy Stumpf

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20-Oct-22






Joe Rogan Experience Podcast #1885: Mike Sarraille & Andy Stumpf

Joe Rogan Experience Podcast #1885: Mike Sarraille & Andy Stumpf

This episode features a compelling conversation with Mike Sarraille, CEO of EF Overwatch and a retired Navy SEAL, and Andy Stumpf, another retired Navy SEAL and host of the podcast “Cleared Hot.” The podcast delves into their experiences in the military, exploring the demanding training, the camaraderie and competition within the SEAL teams, and the ethical challenges they faced. The conversation touches on sensitive topics like the scrutiny of SEAL training practices, the portrayal of veterans in media, and the impact of political correctness on the military. This podcast offers a unique perspective on the world of Special Operations, highlighting the mental and physical resilience required to succeed in this demanding field.

Major Topics

  1. Andy Stumpf’s Early Years and His Introduction to the SEALs:

    • Stumpf’s journey from high school shenanigans to enlisting in the Marine Corps.
    • The role of dip (smokeless tobacco) in staying awake during long watches.
    • His transition from the Marines to the SEALs and his rapid accumulation of combat experience.
    • The impact of Stumpf’s extensive combat deployments on his peers and his reputation for challenging the groupthink within the SEAL teams.

  2. The SEAL Teams’ Culture of Competition and Camaraderie:

    • The inherent competitiveness within the SEAL teams, driven by a constant strive to be better.
    • The importance of shared adversity in fostering camaraderie and trust among teammates.
    • The balance between individual ambition and the need for teamwork in achieving mission success.
    • The concept of “Iron sharpens iron” as a guiding principle for personal and professional growth.

  3. The Rigors of SEAL Training and the Controversy Surrounding It:

    • The viral video of SEAL training involving CS gas exposure and the public outcry against the perceived brutality.
    • The importance of exposing recruits to harsh conditions in a controlled environment to prepare them for the realities of combat.
    • The argument that the SEAL training curriculum is designed to test character and resilience, not to inflict pain.
    • The growing concern about progressive policies infiltrating the military and potentially undermining the effectiveness of elite units.

  4. The Scrutiny of the SEAL Teams in the Media and the Eddie Gallagher Incident:

    • The negative portrayal of SEAL teams in media, often sensationalized and driven by political agendas.
    • The Eddie Gallagher case as a prime example of how a single incident can overshadow a long and honorable career.
    • The role of the Navy Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and its sometimes questionable methods in pursuing SEALs.
    • The importance of distinguishing between individual misconduct and the overall ethics and professionalism of the SEAL community.

  5. The Importance of Mental Toughness and Resilience in the SEAL Teams:

    • The SEAL selection process as a grueling behavioral interview, pushing candidates to their physical and mental limits.
    • The role of past adversity in shaping resilience and success in SEAL training.
    • The story of Jonny Kim, a former SEAL who overcame childhood trauma and became an astronaut.
    • The SEAL training curriculum as a crucible for identifying those who can withstand extreme pressure and make difficult choices.

  6. The Transition from SEAL Training to Operational Deployment:

    • The rigorous SQT (SEAL Qualification Training) program that follows BUD/S and prepares SEALs for operational deployment.
    • The evolution of SEAL training post-9/11, with increased emphasis on standardized training across all SEAL teams.
    • The increasing competition to become a SEAL, with higher standards and a more diverse applicant pool.
    • The ongoing debate about the attrition rate in SEAL training and whether it reflects societal changes or the curriculum itself.

  7. The Impact of Societal Trends on the SEAL Teams:

    • The growing culture of victimhood and the potential for it to undermine the SEAL teams’ values.
    • The discussion about the cancellation of Gordon Ryan, a prominent jiu-jitsu competitor, on social media for alleged bullying.
    • The challenge of balancing the demands of elite performance with social pressures to conform to politically correct standards.
    • The potential for progressive policies to erode the SEAL teams’ effectiveness and their ability to operate independently.

  8. The Importance of Character and Leadership in the SEAL Teams:

    • The misconception that SEALs are all hyper-aggressive and lack empathy.
    • The reality that SEALs are often kind, empathetic individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others.
    • The role of leadership in fostering a culture of accountability and supporting SEALs beyond their service.
    • The importance of mentoring and the influence of experienced SEALs on the next generation.

  9. The Portrayal of SEALs in Media and the Importance of Telling the Full Story:

    • The common portrayal of SEALs in Hollywood as hyper-violent and reckless, often overshadowing their true character and motivations.
    • The challenge of capturing the complex realities of SEAL life in a time-compressed medium like film.
    • The need for more nuanced and authentic portrayals of SEALs, showcasing their empathy, resilience, and dedication.
    • The value of podcasts and other platforms in allowing for in-depth discussions and personal narratives.

  10. The Importance of Recognizing and Honoring the Legacy of Fallen SEALs:

    • The creation of “Legacy Expeditions,” a project by Mike Sarraille and Andy Stumpf to honor the memory of fallen SEALs and support their families.
    • The emphasis on keeping the stories of fallen SEALs alive to ensure that their sacrifices are not forgotten.
    • The use of skydiving expeditions to raise awareness and funds for organizations like “Folds of Honor,” which provides scholarships for the children of fallen service members.
    • The power of shared experience and camaraderie in helping veterans cope with the emotional and mental challenges of returning from combat.

  11. The Evolution of Combatives Training in the SEAL Teams:

    • The historical use of outdated and ineffective combatives training methods in the SEALs.
    • The influence of UFC and other mixed martial arts on the SEAL teams’ adoption of more effective combatives techniques.
    • The benefits of incorporating jiu-jitsu and other grappling techniques for self-defense, prisoner handling, and combat effectiveness.
    • The growing recognition within the military that practical martial arts skills are vital for modern combat scenarios.

  12. The Importance of Pushing Boundaries and Embracing Challenges:

    • The thrill of skydiving and the role of extreme challenges in personal and spiritual growth.
    • The comparison of skydiving to SEAL training, both demanding mental and physical resilience.
    • The importance of venturing beyond comfort zones and embracing new experiences to broaden perspectives.
    • The concept of “airing it out” through physical challenges as a healthy coping mechanism for veterans.

  13. The Importance of Maintaining Safety Standards and Accountability:

    • The incident in Iceland where Andy Stumpf had to intervene due to safety concerns during a skydiving expedition.
    • The importance of meticulous planning, clear communication, and a rigorous risk mitigation process in extreme activities.
    • The need for accountability and the consequences of negligence in potentially dangerous situations.
    • The contrast between the military’s culture of risk mitigation and the sometimes lax standards in the civilian world.

  14. The Importance of Personal Growth and Continuous Improvement:

    • The value of embracing jiu-jitsu and other martial arts as a lifelong pursuit of personal improvement.
    • The importance of recognizing and addressing imposter syndrome, a common challenge faced by high-achievers.
    • The benefits of continued training and learning, regardless of age or experience.
    • The concept of focusing on the process of improvement, rather than solely on the outcome of competitions.

  15. The Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy and Its Controversy:

    • The growing availability of stem cell therapy for treating injuries and promoting healing.
    • The controversy surrounding stem cell therapy, including the lack of extensive research and the potential for side effects.
    • The potential for stem cell therapy to revolutionize medical treatment, offering alternative solutions to surgery and pharmaceuticals.
    • The frustration with the FDA’s restrictions on stem cell therapy in the United States, leading many to seek treatment abroad.

  16. The Importance of Supporting and Honoring First Responders:

    • The inclusion of first responders in the “Legacy Expeditions” project, recognizing their dedication and sacrifice.
    • The shared challenges and experiences faced by military veterans and first responders.
    • The importance of providing support and resources to the families of first responders who have died or been injured in the line of duty.
    • The recognition that first responders deserve the same level of respect and honor as military service members.

Memorable Quotes

  1. “You get a little experience under your belt, and you think you have everything figured out.” – Andy Stumpf
  2. “I’m sick and tired of people having these bad sort of perceptions of what the military is.” – Mike Sarraille
  3. “Evil exists. And you’ve heard the Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to stand by and do nothing.” – Andy Stumpf
  4. “The only way to find out if they’re exceptional is to go through exceptionally difficult scenarios and really try and true it.” – Mike Sarraille
  5. “I loved the men and women I served with left and right a lot more than I hated the enemy.” – Mike Sarraille


 

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