Where do you go to consume your news? Can we even call it that anymore? Is it actually the "news," or is it editorialized information designed to elicit a specific response? One of my favorite quotes comes from a recent conversation with Sebastian Junger, paraphrasing: "The role of the media is not to tell you what to think, but to let you know what to think about." In a sea of media resources designed to only tell you how to think, we are going to try something different. Our goal is to have conversations about relevant topics where we offer our opinions based on experience and leave it up to the audience to decide what to think on their own. I am not interested in being right, I just want us all to collectively be "better."

Welcome to Focal Point - Episode 001

It is safe to say that I have wandered a bit.  I served in the military, flew some jets, jumped out of most, climbed mountains (I jumped off of them too), taught fitness, owned a gym, and have spent the last few years speaking to organizations and leaders.  It has been a journey, and in all honesty, I have no idea where it is going. I seek the things that make me uncomfortable.  I move towards things that scare me.  I think you should too

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Don Edwards is a retired US Army Special Operations veteran with over two decades of service in the 75th Ranger Regiment and 20th Special Forces Group, including a combat jump into Operation Just Cause and combat operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan. We discuss the critical lessons learned during his deployments in high-stakes environments like Iraq and Afghanistan, and how these experiences shaped his approach to tactical training and leadership. Don's post-military includes roles as the Use of Force training manager at the ATF National Academy and his ongoing contributions as a tactical advisor to the Department of Defense. Join us for lessons learned from the front lines, the transition from military to civilian tactical education, and how these experiences have shaped his approach at Green Line Tactical. https://www.greenlinetactical.com/ Wolf 21- Check out what they have to offer for the best sleep of your life:  https://www.thewolf21.com Use Code: "clearedhot" for 30% off of your 1st order The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Don Edwards - The Evolution of Modern Warfare and Tactical Training

Today we are diving straight into the heart of current events, focusing on the ongoing protests at Columbia University. We are going to talk about the complexities of patriotism, personal purpose, and crisis response. 1. The emotional challenge of anti-American sentiment, seeking advice on how to engage constructively with divisive issues in a country we love.  2. How to support a partner in search of new beginnings and a meaningful life mission, particularly when life's path leads us through unexpected twists and turns. 3. Personal safety, with a discussion on effective tactics to respond to public threats, such as the recent tragic knife attack in Sydney. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Death to America???

Brian and Fred were members of the Canadian Armed Forces and both suffered profound impact from the COVID-19 vaccine mandates on their military careers and personal lives. Brian, an Iraq war veteran and former special forces assaulter hopeful, began having physical and medical complications after his second mandatory dosage, ultimately leading to the end of his military service. Fred declined the vaccine, leading to extraordinary and unusual treatment as a result of refusal. Accompanying them is their lawyer, Catherine Christiansen from Valour Law, who provides legal insights into the mass tort lawsuit against the Canadian Forces, addressing claims of abuse of power and the broader ramifications for Canadian civil liberties, from high-stakes intelligence analysis to covert government surveillance during public protests. https://valourlegalactioncentre.org/  https://www.tps.ca/organizational-chart/communities-neighbourhoods-command/field-services/community-partnerships-engagement-unit/military-veterans-wellness-program/  

Brian, Fred, and Catherine - The Fight Over Forced Vaccinations in the Canadian Forces

Two questions today that explore both individual challenges and broader societal concerns. First, a listener from California shares his mental and physical health struggles, along with an intense desire to confront danger head-on, stemming from recent upticks in violence. Next, we hear from a newly appointed police officer grappling with the heartbreak of a recent breakup while starting his dream job in a new city. To close out the episode we are going with a "Food for Thought" segment, where an email from a listener details troubling developments in Nicaragua's border policies and the potential ramifications for U.S. border security. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Courage, Heartbreak, and Border Realities

Barry Minkow starting ZZZZ Best Carpet Cleaning in his parent's garage at 16, quickly rising to fame as one of America's youngest self-made millionaires. But, beneath the success was a massive Ponzi scheme with links to the mob, leading to his conviction and first prison sentence. After serving time, he made a pivot to ministry and community service, only to fall from grace once again, this time being convicted on charges of insider trading and tax fraud.  In total, he served 15 years.  After serving his sentence Barry has emerged with a new mission, fraud detection.  He has since helped the government proactively identify 13 cases of financial fraud totalling over 1 billion in victim impact. Tune in as Barry shares insights into his life of highs and lows, the lessons he’s learned, and how he's navigating the path of redemption.  Wolf 21- Check out what they have to offer for the best sleep of your life: https://www.thewolf21.com Use Code: "clearedhot" for 30% off of your 1st order The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Welcome to Focal Point - Episode 001

Download our free app to listen on your phone