SOFspot is the Podcast of the Global SOF Foundation.
Join GSOF Director of Marketing Chelsea Hamashin, with President Stu Bradin, Military Liaison CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb, and the team as we talk to SOF legends, discuss relevant technologies, and look at the ever-changing battlefield.
Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode.You can listen from this page or wherever you get your podcasts.
Latest Episodes
We are honored to feature ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven in SOFspot Episode #70. He pulls from his legendary SOF career to share his views of leadership, the future of SOF, and the importance of international partnerships. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the greats!
ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven's Books:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/William-H.-McRaven/author/B000APSSE0?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
Upcoming GSOF Events:
https://gsof.org/global-sof-events-listing/
Chelsea sat down with Colonel (R) Jeffrey H. Fischer, a successful author of thrillers and an experienced journalist in international security with a 30-year military career. His service includes seven combat tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Balkans, and he's taken inspiration and experiences from those deployments for his Curt Nover military fiction thriller series. He and his wife have also started a non-profit in Vienna called "Shelter2Service," training shelter dogs to support military Veterans living in Europe.
They discuss all of that and more in this episode of SOFspot.
Buy Jeff Fischer's Books:
https://www.jeffreyhfischer.com/novels
Highlighted GSOF Events:
- GSOF Symposium Europe, 24-26 OCT, Brno Czech Republic
https://www.gsofeurope.org/
- Modern Warfare Week, 13-16 NOV, Fayetteville, NC
https://mww.gsofsymposium.org/
The Global SOF Team is BACK in your pod-feed! After a year-long hiatus from SOFspot, we're returning with all new episodes. A lot has happened for Global SOF since Summer '22, so Stu, Meaghan, Chelsea, and Jenn got together to discuss just what HAS happened over the course of the past year.
From SOF Week to growing the team to policy education, we hit on everything you should know as members of the Global SOF community.
As always, you can learn more about the Foundation at www.gsof.org.
In this episode, we discuss military family building and fertility issues. While we DO talk about freezing sperm samples, more importantly we discuss the breadth of the family planning issue in the SOF community, how it's impacting retention, and what policy changes Congress needs to make to support our Special Ops families.
Our experts today come from the Military Family Building Coalition and Legacy:
- Ellen Gustafson, MFBC Co-Founder
- Katy Bell Hendrickson, MFBC Co-Founder
- John Crowley, Legacy Military Affairs
Listen to hear from these three experts about this issue and why it's so important that we support their efforts to change US policy on military fertility options.
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Military Family Building Coalition
https://www.militaryfamilybuilding.org
Legacy
https://www.givelegacy.com/military/
https://www.givelegacy.com/nsw/
Blue Star Family Survey Results
https://bluestarfam.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/BSF_MFLS_Results2021_Family-Building_03_10.pdf
EVENT - GSOF Symposium Europe
https://www.gsofeurope.org
EVENT - Modern Warfare Week
https://mww.gsofsymposium.org
Global SOF Partner Highlight - CAE USA
http://cae.com
In this episode of SOFspot, GSOF President and CEO Stu Bradin talks to Toby Harnden, an author and journalist who was awarded the Orwell Prize for Books in 2012.He also wrote "First Casualty: The Untold Story of the CIA Mission to Avenge 9/11," which was published in Sept 2021 and tells the story of Team Alpha, an "eclectic band of linguists, tribal experts, and elite warriors who were the first Americans to operate inside Taliban territory after 9/11."
Listen on to hear about what inspired Toby to write the book, how he got to know the team, and what it took to get the interviews and details that tell this important story.
GSOF Partner Highlight: Kymeta Corp.:
https://www.kymetacorp.com
Register for the SOF Imperatives Forum:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=04ba9634-1647-ec11-a3ee-0003ff66d8d0
In this episode, we continue our series of interviews with experts in Ukraine. Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, who we also interviewed in Episode 61, is back to give more updates on the war in Ukraine, what he thinks it will take to end the war, and the extreme actions he expects the Russians to take against his nation.
Learn more about our Sustaining Partner, Peraton:
https://www.peraton.com
See our Global SOF Ukraine Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/
Register for Upcoming Global SOF Events:
http://gsof.org/events
In this episode, Stu chats with author John Pomfrets and COL (Ret) Fred Hart about the actions and inspiration behind "From Warsaw with Love," Pomfrets' latest book. COL (Ret) Hart was part of a daring mission in which Polish SOF rescued him and 5 other Americans from Iraq in 1990. Pomfrets tells the story, along with many more that set the scene on the relationship between the US and Poland.
Listen on to hear some of the story, and get your copy of "From Warsaw With Love" to read the rest...
Buy the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Warsaw-Love-Forging-Unlikely-Alliance/dp/1250296056
Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://news.northropgrumman.com
Global SOF Events:
https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-events
In this interview, which we recorded on March 17th, we speak with MG (Ret) Mike Repass. He's the former commander of Special Operations Command - Europe, and he's also on our Global SOF Advisory Council.
Our CEO and President Stu Bradin spoke with him to get details on some of the lesser-known stories behind the war in Ukraine.
They discuss the high-value natural resources that exist in Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis that is building with Ukrainian refugees, and how he sees the war unfolding.
Listen for our conversation with MG Retired Mike Repass.
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Global SOF Ukraine Info Sharing Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/
Corporate Partner Highlight: Cisco
https://www.cisco.com
As the war in Ukraine continues, our Global SOF team is adding interviews with regional experts to our podcast schedule, including today's guest: GEN Riho Terras.
GEN Terras is the former Chief of Defense for Estonia and is currently a Member of European Parliament. He spoke to Chelsea about the current state of the war, why the Russian approach is failing, and what the US and other Partner Nations can do to provide the needed support to stop Vladmir Putin.
Corporate Partner Highlight: Maxar
http://maxar.com
Global SOF Ukraine Info Hub:
https://gsof.org/ukraine/
Due to current events, SOFspot will feature periodic interviews with subject matter experts on the War in Ukraine. Today's guest was Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, chairman of the Ukrainian Center for Defense reforms and a member of Ukrainian government inter-agency platform for countering hybrid threats.
In this discussion, we talk about the will of the people of Ukraine, past and present tactics of the Russian Military, and the behavior of Vladimir Putin.
Corporate Partner Highlight - CACI:
https://www.caci.com
It's our first REPEAT guest! Stu sat down with Dr. Seth Jones (also featured in Ep. 42) to discuss his latest book: "Three Dangerous Men: Russia, China, Iran and the Rise of Irregular Warfare."
Seth talks about how the US is woefully unprepared for the future of global competition, and the threats presented by Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov; the deceased Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani; and vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission Zhang Youxia.
Who does he think is the most dangerous? You'll have to listen to find out!
Buy "Three Dangreous Men":
https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324006206
See Seth Live at the Special Air Warfare Symposium, 22-24 FEB:
https://saws.gsofsymposium.org
Partner Highlight: BRINC Drones
http://brincdrones.com
We sat down with members of the Special Ops Survivors to talk about their organization, its mission, and the way they support the SOF Community. As an organization that supports the spouses of fallen special operators, they play a critical role in the lifelong service of SOF.
Our guests were:
- LTC (Ret) Rob Neitzel, Vice Chairman of Special Ops Survivors
- Erik Krame, Executive Director of Special Ops Survivors
- Jackie Syverson, a Special Ops Survivor Spouse
We were honored to have them with us to talk about the importance of connection to the SOF community, Special Ops Survivors Programs, and how you can help support their mission.
Special Ops Survivors:
https://www.specialopssurvivors.org
World Wide Technology - Partner Highlight:
https://www.wwt.com
Chelsea sat down with three men who have different experiences and perspectives with mental and physical health in the special operations community. She spoke to:
- COL Mark Ray, Director of USASOC's Human Performance and Wellness program
- Dr. Phil Wagner, the Founder and CEO of Sparta Science
- Phil Gant, recently separated Special Forces and Director of Programs– Ft. Bragg for The Honor Foundation.
We talk about how the body needs to be treated as a system, what makes a special operator both physically and mentally, and what people can do to reduce physical or mental health issues.
Additional Resources:
- USASOC HP and Wellness: https://usasoc.hpw.agilesof.com
- Sparta Science: https://spartascience.com
- The Honor Foundation: https://www.honor.org
- Partner Highlight, Belcan Government Solutions: https://www.belcan.com/solutions/government-solutions/
Join KaLea Lehman of the Military Special Operations Family Collaborative for a preview of some of the discussions and topics we have planned for our first virtual "SOF Team Room." She speaks with three of the event's speakers about SOF Legacy, relationships, and the future.
- Dr. Preston Cline
- Dr. Chris Frueh
- CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb
Register for this FREE virtual event here:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=8de575d1-ee23-ec11-b76a-0003fff84a36
Read "Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging" (Referenced Book):
https://www.amazon.com/Tribe-Homecoming-Belonging-Sebastian-Junger/dp/1455566381
Check out our Highlighted Partner, EY:
www.ey.com/en_us/government-public-sector
Three men who were heavily involved in the birth of MARSOC share their views on the Command's founding:
- Major General (Ret) Mark "Droopy" Clark: Served two tours with USSOCOM and Commanded MARSOC from 2012 to 2014
- General (Ret) Bryan "Doug" Brown: USSOCOM Commander from 2003 to 2007
- Lieutenant General (Ret) Dennis J. Hejlik: The first Commander of Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) from 2006 to 2008
See the Video of the Story with Additional Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zedkXxdoSPg
Check out our Corporate Partner Highlight - ML Horizons:
http://www.mlhorizons.com/
Today's episode features our President and CEO, Stu Bradin and MG (Ret.) Jaime Íñiguez Andrade (with brief cameos from Chelsea and Rick). MG Iñiguez was the first commander of Spain's Joint Special Operations Command. He joined us to talk about his personal history in Special Operations, as well as the growth and establishment of Spanish SOF. He's even written a book about the subject.
Buy MG (Ret.) Iniguez's Book:
https://www.eljardindeloscuriosos.com/libro/1273/las-acciones-no-(todas)-contadas-de-las-unidades-de-operaciones-especiales-espanolas/
Corporate Partner Spotlight - Cellebrite:
https://www.cellebrite.com/en/home/
This Episode comes from our "SOF Story: Live!" on Joint Task Force (JTF) 510 in The Philippines during Operation Enduring Freedom - Philippines (OEF-P). It brings together four men who were there in the early 2000s as they discuss their experiences in the island nation. You'll hear from:
- LTG Retired Donald Wurster
- LTG Retired David Fridovich
- CWO 3 (Ret.) Donald Sikorski, and
- SGM (Ret.) Mike Bosco
For more content, watch the Full Video Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j5v6C_PaDs
Corporate Partner Highlight, ELTA North America:
https://www.eltanorthamerica.com/
Stu and Chelsea speak with journalist and author Jessica Donati about her new book, "Eagle Down: The Last Special Forces Fighting the Forever War." We talk about how she got to Afghanistan, what moments there impacted her the most, and what led her to write the book. She talks about the impact of the war on the soldiers (and their families) and what she sees for the future of Afghanistan.
Get her book wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or your local bookstore!
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Register for the GSOF 7th Anniversary Reception, 17 MAY in Tampa:
https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=bc093dd2-fac6-4a48-9eaf-58a9a7d47c79
Corporate Partner Highlight: Wickr:
https://wickr.com/
In episode 52 of SOFspot, we share excerpts from two of our recent "SOF Stories: Live!"
In the first half we listen in on Operators who participated in Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama in 1989/1990. They talk about the roles they played in the mission and some of their favorite memories.
Like what you hear? The full story is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kylz1E2yuQ
In the second half we jump in on our SOF Story about the Rescue of Slate 46, one of the most famous rescue missions of Operation DESERT STORM. Listen in as the Air Force operators discuss their memories of that rescue mission in Iraq.
Want to hear the rest? The full story is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jW52m7gRt8Y
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Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://wickr.com/
The Frogman Swim is an annual 3+ mile swim across Tampa Bay that takes place every January to raise money for our friends at The Navy SEAL Foundation. This year our own Chelsea Hamashin swam it herself, assigned in honor of SOC (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, so she shares her experience and talks to several folks involved with the swim:
- Chris Irwin, Director of Communications at The Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF)
- Kurt Ott, NSF Ambassador and Director of the Frogman Swim
- Glenn Paige, NSF Ambassador and Board Member, Frogman Swimmer
And her dad, Lloyd Hamashin, even makes a brief cameo!
Link to Donate to Chelsea's Swim for NSF:
https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/2021-tampa-bay-frogman-swim/chelseahamashin
More on the Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/donate/
Global SOF Event: GSOF Symposium - US:
https://us.gsofsymposium.org/Homepage
Global SOF Imperatives for 2021:
https://gsofimperatives.org/
Fundraiser for The Honor Foundation:
https://www.classy.org/event/thf-or-the-next-course/e317671
Stu interviews COL (Ret) Keith Nightingale, former Army special operator and author of "Phoenix Rising: From the Ashes of Desert One to the Rebirth of U.S. Special Operations." He candidly talks about mistakes made at Operation EAGLE CLAW and the Invasion of Grenada, the formation of US Special Operations Command, and what he thinks the role of the ASD SO/LIC should be.
If you like what you hear, you can get COL Nightingale's book on Amazon or your local bookstore:
https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Rising-Hostage-Rebirth-Operations/dp/1612008771
Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/
Global SOF Events:
https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-events
Are you active duty SOF or SOF support and dreading your transition to civilian life? Then this podcast is definitely for you. We talk to three separated (or separatING) operators who discuss their unique paths into post-military life. They are:
- Blake Moore, Former Air Force, currently at Wickr
- Edward "Ted" Handler, Former Marine, currently at STIHL
- Dennis Moore, Retiring SFC U.S. Army Ranger
They talk about knowing when it's time, tools to help you get through the transition, and whether or not Ted can surf!
The Honor Foundation:
https://www.honor.org/
Partner Highlight: Wickr
https://wickr.com/
Partner Highlight: Ntrepid Academy
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/
In this episode of the podcast we share our November 2020 "SOF Story: Live!" on Operation EAGLE CLAW. It features CSM (RET) Rick Lamb and CMSgt (RET) Taco Sanchez, both of whom were involved in EAGLE CLAW and it's follow-on Operation HONEY BADGER.
They discuss prepping for the mission, the many challenges that it presented, and why it's important to keep the skills of Special Operations honed. Plus how they work to honor the five Airmen and 3 Marines who were killed on April 25, 1980.
Recommended Reading:
- Victory on the Potomac by James Locher
- Phoenix Rising by Keith Nightingale
Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid:
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/
This episode of SOFspot is an excerpt from our SOF Story: Live event on Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu in October 1993, which was made famous by the book and movie, Black Hawk Down. In this episode, we highlight four men who were really there, and their personal recollections from that day and night.
Our speakers are:
- CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb
- MAJ (Ret) Mike Moser
- SGM (Ret) Bart Wiggins
- MSG (Ret) Mark Stephens
We're honored to have them all with us to share their perspectives, the stories behind their injuries, and the impact that the losses of the day have had on their lives.
Watch Full Episodes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0iFK6ZpwQ4
Partner Highlight: CTL-Systemware:
https://www.ctl-systemware.com/
Chelsea and Stu met with Dennis Blasko, a "walking encyclopedia"" on the Chinese Military. Dennis has studied the Chinese language, military, and people since the 1970s through roles with the U.S. Army, traditional schooling, and years of in-country experiences.
In this episode we talk about what you can learn from consuming Chinese news media (even if it is propaganda), how their conscription process works, and how China is using more than it's military in the Great Power Competition. Plus–can Stu break a brick over his head??
Links to Chinese Sources:
- http://english.chinamil.com.cn (English)
- http://81.cn (Chinese)
Corporate Partner Highlight: Contingent Global
https://www.contingentglobal.com
In episode 45 we talk about Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI & ML) with three experts on the subject:
- Brian Raymond at Primer.ai
- Tim Kelton at Descartes Labs
- Abe Usher at Black Cape
We talk about how the DoD is handling this "explosion of data," what capabilities they're most excited about developing in the future, and how they see the DoD workforce being trained in these areas. And of course: the impact of COVID19.
Visit the National Security Commission on AI:
https://www.nscai.gov/home
Corporate Partner Highlight: TACG Solutions:
https://www.tacgsolutions.com/
Global SOF has launched "SOF Stories: Live!" These are monthly events with current and former SOF operators focused on different topics, and as the name implies, they occur LIVE. But we also record them so if you miss the live event, the stories can continue to be shared and spread on our other platforms.
This episode's topic was "The Immediate Aftermath of 9/11," which focused on the chaos after the attacks through several current and former AFSOC operators:
- Col. (Ret) Matthew Atkins
- Maj. Gen. (Ret) Michael Kingsley
- Command CCM Greg Smith
- Moderator: CMSgt (Ret) Randy Anderson
Watch the Event Video:
https://youtu.be/UZeH2hSSmck
Global SOF Partner Highlight: Comtech Systems
https://comtechsystems.com/
Chelsea and Stu spoke with Army SF COL (Ret) Bob Wilson, who commanded special operations forces in combat in Afghanistan and in complex missions across Africa, Central Asia, and Latin America. In his final assignment as an Army officer, Bob served in the White House as a director for counterterrorism in the National Security Council.
They discuss being in 7th Group in the 90s, the challenges presented by the austere environments of Africa, and why a light aviation capability like "Armed Overwatch" is important to current and future SOF.
Read COL Wilson's Op/Ed:
https://www.militarytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2020/08/23/armed-overwatch-a-critical-special-operations-forces-requirement/
Ntrepid Academy:
https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/
Crisis Response Company:
https://crisisresponsecompany.com/
Chelsea and Global SOF President Stu Bradin talk to Dr. Seth Jones from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about the Great Power Competition with China, Russia, and Iran.
We discuss the way that the US has taken a more conventional approach to the fight while its adversaries have adapted their strategies to meet the challenges of irregular warfare. Dr. Jones talks about what needs to change for the US to "turn the ship around" and posture itself and its partners to better face the realities of this Great Power Competition. Oh, and of course, we talked about Tik Tok.
Corporate Partner Highlight - Wickr:
https://wickr.com/ram/
SOFspot is back with episode 41! Chelsea and Rick Lamb interview Jerry, a longtime Operator with Polish SOF Unit "GROM." They discuss how Polish SOF train and recruit, being a "Robocop" after Selection, and the unpredictable threats from their "Eastern Neighbors."
Learn More about our 2020 (or 2021) Polish Symposium:
https://www.gsofeurope.org/
Corporate Partner Spotlight: C2 Essentials
https://www.c2essentials.com/
This episode of SOFspot focuses on Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama, and more specifically, the first MaBell Panamanian Surrender Operation at Penonome. Our guests were three men who were in Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), there on the ground in Panama:
- COL (Retired) David McCracken, who was a Major in 1989 and commanded Charlie Company
- COL (Retired) Stephen Boston, who was a Captain in 1989 and the Executive Officer of Charlie Company
- CSM (Retired) Rick Lamb, who was a Sergeant First Class in 1989 and performed the duties of a Special Forces Weapons Sergeant in Charlie Company
We talk about the logistics of the surrender plus what brought them into the operation at Penonome, why they wore "Mickey Mouse Ears," and how they spent that Christmas in Panama.
Just Cause Photo Album:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/184952949@N08/albums/72157714476005688/with/49941328773/
Partner Spotlight - ByLight:
https://bylight.com/
In this episode, Global SOF COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew interviews Mr. Peter Singer, the co-author of recently released novel: "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution."
They discuss the book, which centers around a terrorist attack in Washington, DC just 10 years in the future, and more specifically the technologies and scenarios that are featured. Everything is thoroughly researched and referenced, so that only technologies that are currently plausible in the next decade are realistically featured. #NoVaporware
Listen on to learn why we can get mad at Alexa, how FIC-INT (Fictional Intelligence) could help educate warfighters and policymakers, and what the AI/Human relationships of the future may look like...
Buy "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution":
- Burn-In.com: https://www.burninbook.com/
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Burn-Novel-Real-Robotic-Revolution/dp/1328637239
- Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/burn-in-p-w-singer/1132050970
- IndieBound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781328637239
Partner Spotlight: Bren-Tronics
https://www.bren-tronics.com/
Chelsea Zooms with CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb about Operation EAGLE CLAW, the failed attempt to rescue hostages at the US Embassy in Iran in April 1980. They talk about what it was like to be a Ranger in the 70s, prepping for the mission, and what led to its eventual failure. Plus we talk about the outcomes of the mission and what changes it led to in the US DoD.
Watch the SOF Story from Quarantine Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rnDPvv1tPE
Corporate Partner Highlight: Blue Light, LLC
https://bluelightllc.com/
Chelsea and Steve sit down (virtually) with MSgt (Ret) Wes Bryant, a former JTAC and TACP with 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. He talks about the important role that a JTAC plays in combat operations, the importance of airstrikes in the fight against ISIS, and how that fight had to morph in different areas of the Middle East.
Get the Book! "Hunting the Caliphate"
https://www.amazon.com/Hunting-Caliphate-Americas-ISIS-Strike-ebook/dp/B07TLG7DDJ
Corporate Partner Highlight: goTenna:
https://gotenna.com/
Chelsea and Stu have their first virtual podcast with US Army Special Forces COL (Ret) Kevin Higgins--from his home in El Salvador. He's had a lifelong career in South and Central America, with over a decade in Colombia. We talk about establishing the SF presence in the region, the development and strategies of Plan Colombia, and why the "war on drugs" may not have a true victory. Stay tuned to the end for a bonus story on boxing for the Golden Gloves.
Corporate Partner Highlight: Barbaricum
https://barbaricum.com/
Corporate Partner Highlight: Al Waha Security Solutions
https://wss.com.jo/
This special episode of the podcast includes an update from Stu and Chelsea on the Global SOF focus during the Coronavirus Pandemic.
Then we launch into two SOF Stories from Quarantine: one from Rick Lamb on Armed Overwatch and his relevant experiences in Somalia, followed by Stu's take on the Power of Partnerships and standing up the NATO SOF Headquarters in Europe.
Video Editions of SOF Stories:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUHPc9_rm4QmoSqaKSpKL7A
Global SOF Areas of Focus:
http://gsof.org/mission/
Corporate Partner Highlight: Black Cape
https://blackcape.io/
Two Belgian SOF Operators tell the story behind their Special Forces Group and Special Operations Regiment, diving deep into their roots in WWII. From the Battle of the Bulge to the Beaches of Normandy, learn about how Belgium's most elite soldiers earned their berets, impacted the war, and became the units they are today.
Belgium Museum Recommendation from Rick Lamb (After Corona):
http://www.pegasus-museum.be/
Belgium CDO Museum Recommendation from BELSOF Operator:
http://www.cdomuseum.be/
Corporate Partner Highlight: Huntington Ingalls Industries:
https://www.huntingtoningalls.com/
Get an inside look at our February SOF Imperatives Forum--specifically the panel on the Role of the Assistant SECDEF for Special Operations / Low-Intensity Conflict (ASD SO/LIC). Moderated by Catherine Herridge of CBS News, she spoke with three former ASD SO/LICs:
- Michael Lumpkin
- Brian Sheridan
- Mark Mitchell
See what they had to say about the need to elevate the ASD SO/LIC to an Undersecretary position based on their own experiences with the role.
See our Op/Ed on the topic:
https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/politics/469111-americas-avengers-deserve-an-advocate
Corporate Partner Highlight: Allies, Inc.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allies-inc-/
Jim Hake, the CEO and Founder of non-profit Spirit of America, joins Chelsea and Steve to talk about his organization. Inspired by the events of 9/11, Jim founded SoA to help support the American mission in countries around the globe. He calls himself an "ordinary citizen," but we think you'll agree he's much more than that!
From baseball equipment to veterinary training, SoA uses its "venture capital model" to take actions that build global relationships with agility and flexibility.
Learn More About Spirit of America:
https://spiritofamerica.org/
Corporate Partner Highlight:
https://www.sosi.com/
This episode features the "Future of Terrorism: A New America Assessment" panel from the September 2019 SOF Policy Forum in Washington, DC. Panelists Melissa Salyk-Virk and David Sterman talk about their findings around the increase in drone attacks, issues in the Horn of Africa and Yemen, and the impact of different ideologies both within and outside of the U.S.
To learn more, make sure you check out their full assessment:
https://www.newamerica.org/international-security/reports/terrorism-america-18-years-after-911/
And don't miss our upcoming SOF Imperatives Forum in DC:
https://gsofimperatives.org/dc-program/
Plus, our Corporate Partner Highlight, Peraton:
https://www.peraton.com/
Chelsea and Steve sat down with six active duty soldiers at U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) from Special Forces (SF), Civil Affairs (CA), and Psychological Operations (PSYOP). We discussed joining the Army, differences between conventional and SOF service, and what opportunities ARSOF holds for female soldiers. Thanks to our participants: Ben, Garrett, Rihanna, Kiel, Doug, and Angela!
Learn more about USASOC:
https://www.soc.mil/
Global SOF Partner Highlight: BlackFish
http://blackfishsolutions.com/
Chelsea is joined by GSF President Stu Bradin to talk with LTC (Ret) Jimmy Reese. Reese talks about his unconventional path in the Army that ultimately led him to Delta Force, Operation Anaconda, and becoming an entrepreneur after retiring from Active Duty.
Partner Highlight: The Range Complex
https://www.therangecomplex.com/
Learn More... Stu references Peter Blaber's Book on Operation Anaconda (and more), which is called, "The Mission, The Men, and Me: Lessons from a Former Delta Force Commander":
https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Men-Me-Lessons-Commander/dp/0425223728
LTC Rick Woolshlager is the Commander of the U.S. Army's Special Operations Recruiting Battalion--and he's the guest on this episode of SOFspot! Chelsea met with him at Ft. Bragg to learn about the Army's in-service recruiting team and the many career fields that are available in Army SOF. We talk about opportunities for women, what you should know before you separate from active duty, and if Hollywood has had an impact on recruiting.
Learn More About Army Special Operations:
http://goarmysof.com/
Global SOF Corporate Partner Highlight: Peraton
https://www.peraton.com/
Chelsea and Rick were honored to chat with MG (Ret) Ken Bowra, an American Special Forces hero who's service goes back to the Vietnam War. MG Bowra talks about serving with the MACVSOG-- Military Assistance Command - Vietnam, Studies and Observations Group.
He discusses different tactics used during recon missions, the importance of different types of equipment, and the brotherhood he had with the indigenous troops. It's a very interesting conversation that dives into the real experiences of a Special Forces soldier in Vietnam.
Read the MACVSOG Presidential Unit Citation:
http://www.specialoperations.org/macvsog_puc.html
Global SOF Partner Highlight: Axiologic Solutions:
https://axiologicsolutions.com/
Please note: The statements and opinions of the speakers in this episode are their own. They are not speaking on behalf of the U.S. Government.
This episode comes from this year's SOF Policy Forum in DC, which was held on 18 SEP 2019. We're bringing you a panel called, "Does SOF Leadership Need to Evolve to Win the Future Fight." It features:
- MAJ Nicole Alexander, an Operations Officer in the U.S. Army
- LTC Kevin Trujillo, a National Security Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School
- Col Meghan M. Ripple, a Senior Military Evaluator for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation
- MSgt Michael W. MacKay, Enlisted Leader, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command
And it's moderated by Lyla Kohistany, President and Co-Founder of PROMOTE.
Global SOF Foundation Partner Highlight: Akima
http://www.akima.com/
Global SOF President Stu Bradin sat down with three experts from the SOF Communications (Comms) Community to talk about their careers in the field, the SOF comms "boom" when everything changed, and what they think the future will bring. Our three commo guests are COL (Ret) Joe Tragakis, SGM (Ret) Arthur "AC" Coley, and CPT (Ret) Rob Keeler.
GSF Corporate Partner Spotlight - AirScan:
This episode features Lt. Gen. (Ret) Tom Trask, former Vice Commander of USSOCOM and current member of the Global SOF Advisory Council, along with GSF President/CEO Stu Bradin. They talk about the past and future efforts of the GSF on Capitol Hill, including our platform document--the SOF Imperatives-- and our new partnership with Navigators Global to further our efforts to educate Congressional Staffers.
Plus, it's our first ever Video Podcast... so you can watch along here:
http://bit.ly/sofspot24vid
Take the SOF Imperatives Survey:
http://bit.ly/2020SOF
GSF Partner Highlight: ATN Corp
https://www.atncorp.com/
Register for the Demo Days (and Modern Warfare Week):
https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/
We sat down with AQ and Islamic State expert, Dr. Nelly Lahoud, for a deep dive into the now declassified documents recovered from Osama Bin Laden's Compound in Abbottabad. Dr. Lahoud took us through what she learned from personally translating and analyzing all 6,000 pages of these documents, from the impact of drone strikes to the relationships between AQ and other terrorist organizations in the region. Spoiler alert: many widely accepted ideas may not be correct...
Episode Links:
- Dr. Nelly Lahoud's Books
https://www.amazon.com/Nelly-Lahoud/e/B001KDRC0W?ref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
- Martha Crenshaw's "The Causes of Terrorism"
https://www.jstor.org/stable/421717?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents
- Modern Warfare Symposium
https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/
- GSF Partner Highlight: Air Center Helicopters
https://air.center/
This is our second episode with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. In part two of the conversation we discuss what Dan sees for the future of SOF medicine, the Alan Babin Rule, and freeze-dried plasma. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!
GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Aero Pioneer Group
https://aero-pioneer.com/
Alan Babin on the Gary Sinise Foundation:
https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/specially-adapted-smart-homes/alan-babin/
Stop the Bleeding:
http://stopthebleedingcoalition.org/i
Stu and Chelsea of the GSF met with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. We had such a good conversation that it was worthy of two episodes... this is Part 1. In this episode we discuss NATO SOF medics, the crazy advancements in simulated training, and tourniquets... lots of tourniquets. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!
GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: AC4S
https://www.ac4s.com/
Ranger Rick and Chelsea talked to Bryce Mahoney of the Darby Project--a non-profit that connects, educates, and empowers Army Rangers to lead the way in their communities. We talked about everything from finances to being a "Ranger Always" to ways anyone can support an active duty military member throughout their transition. It's a good listen whether you are, were, or have never been active duty... so please enjoy our 20th episode!
Learn more about The Darby Project:
https://darbyproject.org/
Participate in Run Ranger Run:
https://runrangerrun.com/
Learn more about our highlighted Partner: COMSAT
https://www.comsat.com/
The former SOF members of the GSF Team--Stu and Rick--talk with Chelsea about the GSF's 4th Annual Symposium in Europe. This event is taking place in Brussels, Belgium, a hub for EU and NATO special operations. We talk about key speakers at the event, why it's important to convene the local community, and what we're most excited to see happen in this vibrant European hub. We hope to see you there!
Learn more about the Symposium in Belgium:
http://bit.ly/19BELpod
GSF Partner Highlight: Spectra Group UK
https://spectra-group.co.uk/
At the 2019 Ranger Rendezvous, Chelsea and Rick had the chance to talk to Marcus Hull and Steve Berry of the Three Rangers Foundation. It's a great organization that supports Veterans in many ways--from mentorships to transition support to mental fitness. This episode hits on a lot of real issues and will resonate with anyone who has served (and especially anyone who has transitioned from active duty service)!
Learn More about Three Rangers Foundation:
http://threerangersfoundation.org/
Learn More about GSF Partner MarkLogic:
https://www.marklogic.com/
The GSF's Chelsea Hamashin and CSM (RET) Rick Lamb had the opportunity to attend the 2019 Ranger Rendezvous at Ft. Benning this July. They sat down with US Army Ranger Veteran Tony Mayne to talk about what the Ranger Rendezvous entails, what it means to current and former Rangers, and even hit on some Army history!
Learn More about the 75th Ranger Regiment:
https://www.75thrra.org/reunion/
Check out the Modern Warfare Symposium:
http://bit.ly/19MWSOFspot
Chelsea and Ranger Rick set a GSF Podcast record by hosting 6 guests from the Pasco Police Office, including Sheriff Chris Nocco. Pasco PD is spearheading efforts in Florida to recruit and employ former Special Operators, and they are piloting programs to expedite the qualification processes. We also discussed Human Performance, the mirrored camaraderie between Special Ops and Police Units, and what about the job is most fulfilling to each guest.
More about Pasco PD:
https://pascosheriff.com/
GSF Partner Highlight: Insitu
https://www.insitu.com/
Chelsea was joined by GSF President Stu Bradin and Norwich University's Bill Clements, who is both the Dean of the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies and the VP of Academic Affairs. Norwich University has a long military tradition, from being the birthplace of ROTC to its present-day programs that provide school credit for experiential learning for current and former SOF. Listen and learn (and then learn some more!)
More about Norwich's Online Programs:
https://online.norwich.edu/
Corporate Partner Highlight: Excelitas
https://www.excelitas.com/
In this episode our team sat down with MAJ (Ret) John Spencer, the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute and Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project. We talked about what makes Urban Warfare so different, the lack of true training facilities for this terrain, and how SOF can lead the charge on improving preparedness for the Urban Battlefield.
Link to Referenced Concrete Article:
https://mwi.usma.edu/effective-weapon-modern-battlefield-concrete/
Corporate Partner Highlight:
Northrop Grumman: https://news.northropgrumman.com/
Chelsea and Meaghan had a great talk with LTC Natalie Vanatta of the US Army Cyber Institute. They hit everything from how cyber fits in to special operations to resiliency in the cyber domain to the future threat landscape. It was an interesting discussion, whether you're a cyber pro or a "newb."
Learn more about the Army Cyber Institute:
https://cyber.army.mil/
GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Oracle
https://www.oracle.com/webfolder/join-nsg/index.html
In today's "Space Jam" episode, two Space Professionals joined Chelsea and Steve to talk about the realities of Space Conflict, touching on everything from the competitive advantage in space to the impacts of SpaceX, to the inspiration of pop culture on space exploration.
Thank you to the two Space Professionals who joined us: US Army Col Dennis Wille and Carissa Christensen, the CEO of Bryce Space and Technology.
Highlighted GSF Corporate Partner:
BAE Systems: https://www.baesystems.com/
In this episode Meaghan, Chelsea, and Steve team up to talk to Nick Rasmussen, a Senior Director for National Security and Counterterrorism Programs at the McCain Institute and former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). We discussed many facets of counter-terrorism (CT), from having the "imagination" to prevent attacks, the importance of using technology to become more efficient at CT, and the importance of working with Partner Nations to effectively fight terrorism.
GSF Corporate Partner Highlight:
Cubic Corp: www.cubic.com
Members of the Global SOF team sat down with The Honorable Sharon Burke, a senior advisor at New America and former assistant secretary of defense for operational energy. We talked about the challenges of the thawing operational environment in the Arctic, the various competitive spaces around natural resources, and worldwide effects of climate change.
GSF Partner Highlight: Cisco
Learn more at: https://www.cisco.com/
Thanks to New America for facilitating:
https://www.newamerica.org/
Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew and Steve Jones from the Global SOF team sat down with Congressman Seth Moulton to discuss his views on the U.S. Defense Strategy, ranging from how the budget should be allocated to cyber warfare to the approach to global defense organizations like NATO. See what the Congressman, who is running for the Democratic Nomination for President, has to say in this week's episode.
GSF Partner Highlight: PAE
Learn more at: https://www.pae.com/
Thanks to New America for facilitating:
Learn more at: https://www.newamerica.org/
Chelsea was joined in today's episode by the GSF's "Ranger Rick" Lamb and Colonel Magne Rodahl, a Norwegian SOF Officer, to talk about the Telemark Raid of WW2. This mission was primarily conducted by Norwegian SOF, so we talk about the raid's significance to the war, some of the heroes who contributed, and the importance of allies.
So jump on the lift and ride with us up this mountain of a story.....hint: skiing is involved!
Today's guest was The Honorable Jim Locher-- a man who played a leading role in the Goldwater-Nichols Act, the Nunn-Cohen Amendment, the Bosnia Defense Reform Commission, and so much more. He sat down with the GSF's Chelsea Hamashin and Dr. Keenan Yoho to discuss these massive undertakings throughout his career and how he worked across party lines to make things happen.
Enjoy this talk with Mr. Locher, which we are releasing on the 32nd Birthday of US Special Operations Command due to Mr. Locher's role in its establishment.
Want to learn more? You can buy Mr. Locher's book, "Victory on the Potomac," here:
https://www.amazon.com/Victory-Potomac-Goldwater-Nichols-Williams-Ford-University/dp/1585443980
Meaghan and Chelsea sat down with Lyla Kohistany and Ashley Sogge from PROMOTE, an organization that focuses on inclusive leadership and maintaining the diverse talent within a SOF workforce. We learn why they started PROMOTE, their process in working with SOF units, and the results of their workshops--even when they get weird! If you'd like to learn more about PROMOTE, check out the links below!
Read their latest Article: Dispelling the Myth of Women in Special Operations
Visit them Online: http://www.promoteleadership.org/
Contact them: founders@promoteleadership.org
Small businesses are a crucial piece of the defense industry puzzle, especially in the Special Operations domain. In this episode, we had a good discussion with representatives from two of our Small Business Partners-- Lori Larsen of Celestar and Garth Arevalo of Lukos. We talked everything from the pains and perks of running a small business to how to get your foot in the door with special operations.
Learn more about our guest companies:
Lukos: http://lukos.com/
Celestar: https://www.celestarcorp.com/
Free money, job experience, and network growth? Those are some "bennies" we can get behind. DoD SkillBridge is a lesser-known Fellowship Program offered by the U.S. Department of Defense-- it allows Active Duty Military to participate in internships with companies of their choosing prior to their separation from Active Duty.
In today's episode, CDR (Ret) Steve Jones and CDR (Ret) Chuck Neu--both SkillBridge Vets-- talk about their experience with the opportunity and why anyone leaving the U.S. Military should participate.
For Reference: https://dodskillbridge.com/
Today we discussed the ins and outs of conducting business, specifically SOF business, on an international level. Topics include the importance of personal relationships, legal considerations, and venues for building out your global network. Our guests today, Mr. Tony Quartararo from Spatial Networks and Mr. Stan Highsmith of Fulcrum (both representatives of GSF Small Business Partners) provide real-world experience and vignettes.
The GSF staff is back to talk about SOF for Life--a multi-faceted program that works to support SOF and SOF support who are transitioning from Active Duty. We talk about what the program entails (transition seminars, support in finding a career, wealth management), and the SOF for Life Survey, which had many findings--including the lack of medical, financial, and career prep that many respondents had when they left Active Duty. If you're leaving Active Duty within the next 2 years, we strongly recommend that you listen!
We're beginning our podcast at the beginning, with a discussion of how the Global SOF Foundation started and got to where it is today. Today you'll hear from GSF President Stu Bradin, COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew, Director of International Engagements Rick Lamb, and your GSF podcast spirit guide, GSF Director of Marketing Chelsea Hamashin.
The crew is going to discuss how it became obvious that the GSF was needed, the challenges and victories of the early years, and what we're most excited about for the future. Enjoy!
Meet the Team
Host, Producer, Editor, Master Podcaster + Global SOF VP of Marketing and Events
Frequent Speaker & Interviewer + Global SOF President & CEO
Frequent Speaker & Interviewer + Global SOF Military Liaison
Series Highlights
Want to get involved?
Contact Chelsea Hamashin for inquiries about advertising or guest booking.
