In this episode, I tackle two listener-submitted questions that dig into the heart of our personal and societal struggles. The first question is from a high school student looking ahead to the daunting uncertainties of the future and seeking advice on how to make the right choices. The second question comes from a member of the SOF community who is grappling with a changing perspective on American politics and feeling increasingly disconnected from his father's liberal views. Whether you're stepping into adulthood and worried about the path ahead, or finding it difficult to bridge the gap between you and a loved one due to differing political beliefs, hopefully, this episode can provide thoughtful insights to help you navigate these issues. Sign up for the new G14 newsletter here: https://www.clearedhotpodcast.com/exclusive Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Facing the Future & Bridging Political Divides

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

We are diving into listener-submitted questions that cover the gamut of life's toughest challenges: Question 1: Heartbreak and Healing We start with an emotionally charged question about dealing with the aftermath of a breakup after six years of a tumultuous relationship. How do you start the journey of self-improvement, setting boundaries, and finding the strength to move forward. Question 2: SEAL Life Unveiled Ever wondered what a Navy SEAL looks like off-duty? The myth versus reality of SEALs' everyday attire and habits. Plus, the demanding schedule of a BUD/S instructor and how they balance intense training with personal time. Question 3: Black Belt Bliss What's it like being married to a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt? What do you do in the event of a public confrontation, and the dynamics of a relationship where one partner is a martial arts expert.  Question 4: Conflict on the Commute  How to handle encounters with unstable individuals in public spaces. Drawing from a harrowing experience on a Philly train, what strategies to use for staying calm, assessing the situation, and knowing when to step in or step back. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Breakups and Bar Brawls

Josh grew up in Lincoln, Montana on the edge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness. At the age of 11 Josh’s baseball coach, Rick Dunkerley, began teaching him how to make knives. In the very beginning, Josh would go to Rick’s shop where he learned to remove stock blades under the guidance of Rick. About a year later, Josh began putting a shop together at his home. Josh’s Dad gave him room to work in his equipment shop, and at the age of 12 Josh joined the American Bladesmith Society. Over the next few years Josh began forging and honing his craft. Josh turned 14 at the Eugene Oregon knife show where he met other incredible knife makers, all too willing to share their talents and knowledge with Josh. At 15 years old, Josh passed the Journeyman bladesmith test in Atlanta, Georgia at the Blade Show. Josh became the youngest bladesmith to ever pass this test. The Journeyman test is a two part process. A test blade must be forged and heat treated with the capabilities to chop a 1” rope in half, 2- 2x4’s in half and then still shave hair. Once the cutting tests are done the blade must be able to bend 90 degrees in a vise without breaking. After passing the performance test the maker must present 5 knives to a panel of Mastersmith Judges. Each knife is examined closely to ensure the knife is made to the highest standard of craftsmanship. At the Journeyman level a maker is not expected to show perfection but is expected to show a sufficient level of craftsmanship expected from a professional bladesmith. Josh continued to work on his craft and at the age of 19 he earned his Master Smith rating from the American Bladesmith Society. Josh was the youngest bladesmith to ever pass the Master Smith test. In 2002 Josh moved to Frenchtown, Montana where he now calls home. Josh and his wife Jessica live on a beautiful piece of property near the Clark Fork river. They have 3 daughters and 1 son that are active in sports. Josh coaches the youth tackle football team and a youth girls basketball team. The Smith kids raise cattle and hogs in 4H in addition to their sports. Jessica is the customer service and fulfillment manager for MKC. 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 T he Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Josh Smith - CEO of Montana Knife Company

1. The complex aftermath of escaping an abusive relationship, highlighting the ongoing struggle with PTSD and trauma. How do you support loved ones through their healing journey and address the challenges of co-parenting with an ex-partner?  2. Tattoos and their significance within the SEAL community. 3. Advice to a young SEAL officer embarking on his first deployment, drawing parallels between military and civilian life. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Trauma, Tattoos, and Transitions

Jimmy Watson served 17 years on active duty, splitting time between the Marine Corps, Blackwater, and finally as a Navy SEAL. He completed 2 deployments as a Marine before transitioning to Blackwater and working his way to the role of Team Leader. While in this role the Nisour Square Massacre occurred, an event that would draw FBI attention later, but by that time he was already serving at an SDV command in Hawaii as a SEAL. I don't know the best word to describe Jimm'ys life, it has taken twists and turns that most can likely not fathom. From leaving school at 13 to a suicide attempt in a mental hospital while fighting to stay in the military, to working from John McAfee to being on the run from the FBI, to finding redemption in faith. Strap in for a journey, we talked about it all. Fear the belt sander.... Please check out Jimmy's online community here: https://www.jimmywatson.co 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/  

Jimmy Watson - A Journey to Hell and Back

We are back again with a role reversal, turning the microphone towards the man usually behind the scenes – show producer, Michael Shelton. I never know where these conversations are going to lead, since I am turning the questions over to Michael, a man with an internet search history that has likely landed him on a variety of watchlists. There was absolutely no structure to this episode, where we covered everything from the controversial topic of soaking, flat earth pioneers who die in their own homemade rockets, social uprisings on college campuses, pride in being an American, and people lighting themselves on fire in protest. It is always a wild journey, I hope you enjoy it. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Facing the Future & Bridging Political Divides

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