Unbreakable Will: Paralympian & Marine Rob Jones on Resilience After War

Last month, SOFREP writer Luke Ryan wrote a heart tugging piece titled, "The American Dream in a foster kid turned Ranger" about the story of Curtis Albers.  It was a well received article, though shorter, so it was great to be able to speak more in-depth with Curtis on his life's story, it's a must listen.  Curtis talks about the abuse, racism, and unnecessary drugs he was prescribed, while being circulated from one foster home to another as a youth with his sister.  He then talks about becoming a Ranger, and while deployed, having to hear about the rape of his sister that occurred.  Curtis's story however does reveal some light at the end of a very dark tunnel, and it looks like it may be a story that will be brought to the big screen at some point. Jason and myself also read some rather critical emails sent to sofrep.radio@sofrep.com, and address them head on.  We also talk about the current administration's national security strategy that was laid out, as well as the recent attack in Melbourne.  We went really long this one, and we hope you get something out of it!  With that, we wish a very Merry Christmas to all of our listeners, especially those stationed overseas.  We've got your six. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

23 Des 20172h 12min

Liz Carmouche (also known as Girl-Rilla) is not only a women's UFC fighter, but also served as a Marine aviation electrician with three tours of duty to the Middle East.  You'll hear Liz get into her background, her early experiences as a young athlete, and how growing up in Japan led to her motivation to serve in the Corps.  We also discuss her ventures with 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu in California.  Liz tells us about her drive to succeed, why she chooses not to be a trash-talker, and why she wasn't surprised with Ronda Rousey stepping away from the sport.  For those who don't know, Carmouche fought Rousey nearly five years ago at UFC 157 in Anaheim, California for the first ever women's UFC fight.  Jim West who hosts this episode with me also recaps his first ever street fighting class and seminar that was exclusively for Crate Club members, and also gets into his son having now left home for the U.S. Air Force.  We also discuss the benefits of fitness in general, both of us being guys who work out frequently.  Any questions?  Send them over to sofrep.radio@sofrep.com You can follow Liz Carmouche on Twitter and Instagram @IAmGirlrilla.  We hope to have her back on soon! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

20 Des 20171h 25min

I just have got to say it, this may be one of the most interesting guests to ever come on the podcast.  When it comes to taking part in CIA operations that have truly influenced the course of modern day American history, and world history at large, few have the experience of Mr. Jack Devine.  Starting his career with the Agency from the late 60's and into the 90's, Jack was there for major global events like Iran-Contra, the fall of Chile's President, and the fight to push the Soviets out of Afghanistan.  Jack was also a close personal friend of Charlie Wilson who he describes as a patriot, and labels the film "Charlie Wilson's War" to be much more a work of fiction than most would have you believe. We get Devine's take on current events and figures like Edward Snowden, the investigation of former FBI director Robert Mueller, as well as the Iran nuclear deal and the dangers of a nuclear capable North Korea.  Devine is currently the President of The Arkin Group, and his latest book is "Good Hunting: An American Spymaster's Story."  You'll hear the shift Jack has seen of former CIA veterans going public, as well as the scary trend of guys with phony credentials claiming CIA and being given major platforms in the media.  Strap in, because you're about to learn a whole lot from this man. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 Des 20171h 26min

There have been some guys in the veteran community who have made a really successful transition out of the military and into doing comedy that plays on their service.  Mat Best comes to mind of course, and so does this guest, former Marine Infantry Officer, Donny O'Malley.  Donny is not only a YouTube sensation, but he authored the book "Embarrassing Confessions of a Marine Lieutenant."  We hear about his time captaining a wounded warrior battalion after college, as well as a hilarious anecdote from his failed attempt at being a teacher.  Donny talks about his initial vision getting into comedy, and where it is now with his own company and subscription service, Vet TV.  Donny's website is DonnyOMalley.com, and you can follow him on all social media platforms @DonnyOMalley. Jason and I also talk about the Alabama Senate race of Roy Moore VS Doug Jones (you'll hear whose prediction was correct as we recorded this the night of the election,) Dennis Rodman asking President Trump for a formal role as North Korea envoy (you know I like to seize on any opportunity to talk about The Worm,) and of course the failed terrorist attack on Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City.  We also see what e-mails are coming through to sofrep.radio@sofrep.com.  As always, be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram @SOFREPRadio for the latest happenings. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13 Des 20171h 32min

SOFREP TV executive producer Drew Wallace was in town for the Hurricane Group holiday party, and it made for the perfect opportunity to finally get him on the podcast.  We get the inside scoop on what's in store for the network in 2018, and it's a lot to be excited for.  Since we live streamed this episode, we also got a chance to answer your SOFREP TV related questions. Drew has an awesome background operating himself, serving in 1st Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment for 3 years with 4 deployments prior to transitioning to a career in film.  We get really in-depth with the Ranger School experience, and you'll learn a lot this episode from a guy who's been there and done that.  Drew also partook in the Best Ranger Competition which he gives some insight on. Now is truly the time to subscribe to SOFREP TV with a discounted membership of $4.99 a month, so we suggest you get on that.  Drew's working really hard to give you all some kick ass programming with shows like "Training Cell" that you will not get anywhere else.  Be sure to follow what the network is up to @SOFREPTV on Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

8 Des 201748min

Echo Company Commander, Marine Corps Major Scott Huesing has a new book that comes out early next year, and we hear all about what inspired it.  "Echo in Ramadi: The Firsthand Story of US Marines in Iraq's Deadliest City" comes out February 20th, and it details Scott's account of Ramadi from the period of 2006-2007.  Huesing, now retired, served for over 24 years with 10 deployments commanding special operations capable units.  He tells us the qualities he sees fit to make a great leader, and for him, it's not always about combat experience.  He also talks about his passion for volunteer work and giving back.  Be sure to pre-order the book, it's guaranteed to give some insight into a specific time in recent warfare that hasn't been tackled yet from this angle. Jason and I also give a huge shout out to Wes Whitlock, CEO of Rogue American Apparel for his high praise of the last episode with his pal Steve Ralston.  We discuss entrepreneurship in the military community.  Also, we give a Throat Punch of the Week that we'd love to hear your opinion on.  Email us at sofrep.radio@sofrep.com Scott wanted to dedicate his appearance on this show to Corporal Dustin Libby (USMC.) Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

6 Des 20171h 4min

Going back to Steve Ralston's commentary for SOFREP TV's "Inside the Team Room: Cut from the Same Cloth" up to his more recent appearance on Episode 300, you guys have wanted to hear more wisdom from Ralston, and we delivered.  For the first time, Steve gets into some extremely disturbing details of a very unconventional childhood and adolescence leading up to his time in the SEALs.  The story is one that he lived in fear of coming to light for many years.  Steve's story however is one of triumph and overcoming adversity, and you do not want to miss it.  It may just be that inspirational kick in the ass you need to conquer your own demons.  You can follow Steve on Instagram @RalstonSte and stare in awe at the incredible New York City skyline view from his bedroom. We also check our email sent to sofrep.radio@sofrep.com, and talk some recent happenings in the special operations community.  Namely the lowering of standards in the Green Berets written at length for the free piece on SOFREP.com, "Careerism, cronyism, and malfeasance in the Special Warfare Center."  Steve also addresses some of the criticism his colleagues in the Teams have received for writing books and starting successful business ventures.  We're looking forward to having Steve back on again soon. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2 Des 20171h 47min

It was a real blast having Rob O'Neill in studio again, this time with Jason Delgado to cover an array of issues, and even answer some questions from viewers as we streamed live.  We also dived deeper into Rob's best-selling book "The Operator: Firing the Shots that Killed Osama bin Laden and My Years as a SEAL Team Warrior."  We hear the current Fox News contributor's take on North Korea, Bowe Bergdahl, and the recent verdict on terrorist Abu Khattala.   You can see Rob's happenings on his website, RobertJONeill.com, and also be sure to check out his charity focusing on operator transition to civilian life called Your Grateful Nation.  He's very active on social media @McHooyah on Twitter and Instagram.  Most recently, he also made a pretty epic appearance starring in "Hillbilly Rich," the music video from country artist Tim Montana. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

30 Nov 20171h 37min