Harder Not Smarter Podcast

In this episode of the Harder Not Smarter podcast, hosts Kevin Seiff and Greg VanDyne discuss a variety of trending topics, including Elon Musk's controversial $1 million voting lottery, the unexpected focus on Arnold Palmer's personal life during political discourse, and the advancements in space travel through SpaceX. They also explore the rise of independent media and podcasts as credible sources of information, contrasting them with traditional news outlets.

Ron Lasorsa, a former Marine Infantry Officer and Wall Street trader, has created the Victory Litigation Fund to seek justice and compensation for veterans affected by toxic exposure. He is challenging the legal industry and redirecting funds back into the veteran community. Ron is currently involved in the Camp Lejeune toxic water litigation, where he has filed a lawsuit against the lawyer responsible for the special interest bill that limited veterans' eligibility for compensation. He plans to audit the docket and expose fraudulent claims, potentially recovering $7.5 billion for veterans. Ron envisions using the funds to invest in companies, provide legal services, and establish an alternative healthcare system for veterans. Ron Lasorsa discusses his determination to fight for justice for veterans affected by toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune. He explains his plan to audit the docket as a special master and lobby Congress to change the law to make it easier for veterans to receive benefits. Lasorsa also discusses his vision for using the funds from the Victory Litigation Fund to support veteran entrepreneurship and address critical issues in the veteran community. He emphasizes the importance of veterans supporting each other and creating a cohesive community.

In this episode of the Harder Not Smarter podcast, hosts Kevin Seiff and Greg VanDyne discuss the new format of the show, which includes both guest interviews and one-on-one discussions about current events. They cover a wide range of topics, including the impact of TikTok on society, the controversies surrounding its algorithm, and the recent legislative efforts by Dan Crenshaw to promote psychedelic treatments for veterans suffering from PTSD. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by social media and mental health treatments in today's world. In this conversation, Kevin Seiff and GVD explore various themes including the influence of Big Pharma on mental health treatments, the potential benefits of psychedelics, and the implications of the US-Mexico border crisis. They also discuss the perception of American politics from a global perspective, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by both the political system and the healthcare industry. The conversation is punctuated with humor and insightful commentary on the state of mental health treatment and the political landscape.

Norman Ohler, author of 'Tripped: Nazi Germany, the CIA, and the Dawn of the Psychedelic Age', discusses the history of drugs in Nazi Germany and the CIA's involvement with LSD. He shares his personal interest in drugs and the different types of drugs, as well as the cultural differences between Germany and the US. Ohler also talks about his father's use of LSD to help his mother with Alzheimer's and the legal issues they faced. The conversation delves into the CIA's experimentation with LSD and the manipulation of individuals, as well as Ohler's research process and the challenges of accessing archives. The conversation explores the discovery of LSD and its potential as a medicine, as well as the political and societal implications surrounding its use. It delves into the history of LSD, including its connection to Nazi Germany and the CIA. The discussion highlights the need for more research and understanding of psychedelics, and the potential benefits they may have in treating mental health conditions. The conversation also touches on the importance of set and setting when taking psychedelics, and the need for responsible use.

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https://linktr.ee/harder_not_smarter
Norman’s Links
https://www.normanohler.de
Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of the Guest

01:48 Drug Use in Nazi Germany and the Third Reich

06:38 Cultural Attitudes Towards Drugs in Germany and the US

09:36 LSD as a Medicine and its Potential Benefits

13:04 Legal Issues and Personal Use of LSD

16:16 The CIA's Experimentation with LSD and Manipulation

23:54 The Discovery of LSD and Its Potential as a Medicine

26:02 LSD's Connection to Nazi Germany and the CIA

29:05 The Need for More Research and Understanding of Psychedelics

31:19 The Importance of Set and Setting in Psychedelic Experiences

37:22 Responsible Use of Psychedelics

Takeaways

Drugs have always been a part of human history and society, and it is important to understand their effects and potential benefits.

The cultural attitudes towards drugs differ between Germany and the US, with Germany being more conservative and less informed about psychedelics.

LSD was initially developed as a medicine by a Swiss pharmaceutical company, and its potential therapeutic uses are still being explored.

The CIA's involvement with LSD was driven by the fear of its use as a truth serum and the desire to manipulate individuals.

Accessing archives and original sources is crucial for accurate historical research, but it can be challenging to find specific information. LSD was discovered by Albert Hoffman and initially developed by the pharmaceutical company Sandoz as a potential stimulant for the mind.

The discovery of LSD led to research on its potential therapeutic benefits, including its use in treating depression and other mental health conditions.

The political and societal climate of the time, including Nazi Germany and the Cold War, influenced the perception and regulation of LSD.

There is a need for more research and understanding of psychedelics, including their potential benefits and risks, in order to make informed decisions about their use.

Set and setting, as well as responsible use, are important factors to consider when taking psychedelics.

Nick Lavery, a Green Beret and combat wounded warrior, shares his remarkable story of resilience and leadership. Despite facing life-altering injuries, Nick returned to active duty and founded Team Machine to empower others. He discusses the challenges he faced during his recovery and the importance of mindset and strategy in achieving goals. His book, Objective Secure, serves as a guide to goal achievement and emphasizes the significance of discipline, resilience, and persistence. Nick's message is aimed at inspiring and motivating individuals in all areas of life. Nick Lavery discusses the importance of recognizing and tapping into one's potential, and how extreme adversity can be a catalyst for personal growth. He emphasizes the power of discipline, fear, and community in achieving success. Lavery also shares his journey of transitioning from being solely identified as a Green Beret to finding a broader sense of purpose and creating a legacy. He highlights the misconception that special operators are emotionless and emphasizes the importance of teamwork and empowering others. Lavery concludes by discussing his company, Team Machine, and the services they offer.

Get 1-month of FREE access to the ⁠Vet Collective Community⁠ by using discount code: NLT1UQTI 

Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.collective.vet⁠⁠⁠  

Episodes also available on Spotify, Apple, and Amazon Music. 

https://linktr.ee/harder_not_smarter
Nick’s Links

https://teammchn.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thenicklavery/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKNVniNJKTYRZpTmfyJJjtA

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-lavery-a691871ba/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nick Lavery

02:07 Nick's Injury and Recovery

08:02 Challenges in Afghanistan

11:08 Overcoming Adversity and Returning to Duty

16:37 The Importance of Mindset

20:12 Writing Objective Secure

23:13 The Message of Objective Secure

28:24 Recognizing and Tapping into Potential

29:24 Adversity as a Catalyst for Growth

35:33 The Power of Discipline and Fear

38:57 Transitioning from Identity to Purpose

44:01 Empowering Others and Building Strong Teams

54:30 Legacy and Being Remembered

58:38 The Reality of Special Operators

01:00:05 Conclusion and Team Machine Services

Takeaways

Nick Lavery's story is one of resilience and leadership, as he overcame life-altering injuries and returned to active duty as a Green Beret.

His organization, Team Machine, empowers others through his experience and knowledge.

Nick emphasizes the importance of mindset and strategy in achieving goals, and his book, Objective Secure, serves as a guide to goal achievement.

Discipline, resilience, and persistence are key factors in Nick's approach to success in all areas of life. Recognizing and tapping into one's potential can lead to personal growth and achievement.

Extreme adversity can serve as a catalyst for unlocking pre-existing potential.

Discipline, fear, and community are powerful tools in achieving success.

Transitioning from a singular identity to a broader sense of purpose can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.

Empowering others and building a strong team dynamic are essential for success.

Team Machine offers a range of services, including coaching, community support, and training workshops.

Gina Casazza shares her journey of exploring her limits and pushing herself out of her comfort zone. It all started with a conversation with her mom about surviving a kidnapping, which led her to sign up for a civilian version of SEER training. She then found John McLaren, a former Navy SEAL, who trained her and introduced her to the mindset of special operators. Gina also talks about her experiences in the entertainment industry, working with celebrities like Ralph Macchio and Penny Marshall. She emphasizes the importance of taking risks, facing fears, and not being afraid to try new things. Gina shares her experience at the SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) training program. She describes the intense physical and mental challenges she faced, including sprinting, getting wet, being covered in sand, and enduring surf torture. Despite the difficulties, Gina didn't quit and found that the training prepared her well for the field. She also learned the importance of being a good teammate and supporting others. Gina's escape from the training program was a significant accomplishment. Gina shares her journey from training with a Navy SEAL to becoming a children's author and podcast host. She emphasizes the importance of experiencing life and pursuing your passions. Gina discusses her current projects, including pitching a thrilling TV show, writing her memoir, and creating a podcast book. She also talks about her disciplined daily routine and the challenges she takes on to build mental toughness and grit. Gina encourages listeners to live life to the fullest and not have any regrets.
Show Links 

Get 1-month of FREE access to the ⁠Vet Collective Community⁠ by using discount code: NLT1UQTI 

Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.collective.vet⁠⁠⁠  

Episodes also available on Spotify, Apple, and Amazon Music. 

https://linktr.ee/harder_not_smarter
Gina’s Links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-casazza-97b82226/
https://mindsetlessonsfromthefield.substack.com
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmCukt91CDijj2-QMGQ_plw
https://www.instagram.com/mindsetlessonsfromthefield/
Chapters

00:00 Introduction: From Kidnapping to Special Operators

06:17 From Hollywood to the Military

11:23 Embracing Fear and Overcoming Challenges

34:50 Enduring the Intense Challenges of SERE Training

37:28 The Life-Changing Impact of SERE Training

42:07 The Importance of Teamwork and Support in SERE Training

53:12 The Escape from the SERE Training Program

01:11:12 From Training with a SEAL to Becoming a Children's Author and Podcast Host

01:14:54 Embracing Challenges and Pursuing Passions

01:16:41 Discipline and Time Management for Success

01:18:43 Building Mental Toughness and Grit

Takeaways

Don't be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things.

Facing fears and overcoming challenges can build mental toughness and resilience.

Taking risks and not being afraid to fail can lead to personal growth and success.

Having a mindset of perseverance and determination is crucial in achieving your goals. SERE training is an intense program that tests participants physically and mentally

Enduring difficult challenges can build resilience and mental toughness

Being a good teammate and supporting others is crucial in high-pressure situations

Escaping from the training program is a significant accomplishment Experience life and pursue your passions.

Don't be afraid to try new things and take on challenges.

Maintain a disciplined routine and prioritize your time.

Build mental toughness and grit through daily exercises.

Live life to the fullest and have no regrets.

In this conversation, Kevin and Greg interview Stephen Kaplan, the owner of Trident Adventures and a former Navy SEAL. They discuss Stephen's career in the Navy SEALs and his experiences working with other special forces units. They also talk about the challenges and rewards of being a country officer and running high-risk training programs. The conversation provides insights into the life of a Navy SEAL and the importance of teamwork and adaptability. The conversation in this part revolves around the false missile alarm in Hawaii and the unique bond and mindset of military personnel. The hosts share personal experiences and discuss the impact of life-threatening situations on perspective and priorities. They also touch on the challenge of recreating the brotherhood and sense of purpose in the business world. Steve Kaplan shares his experience of going through Navy SEAL training and the challenges he faced along the way. Despite multiple injuries and setbacks, Kaplan's faith and determination kept him going. He emphasizes the importance of the Navy SEALs as a rite of passage and a way to define manhood. Kaplan also discusses his business, Trident Adventures, which offers high-end diving experiences and focuses on providing a unique and exceptional customer experience. Trident Adventures offers a range of unique experiences, including scuba diving, snorkeling, helicopter tours, shooting packages, hunting trips, and spearfishing. They have developed distinctive specialty programs, such as helicopter diving, where participants jump out of helicopters into the water and go scuba diving. Trident Adventures also offers opportunities for service members to use their GI Bill benefits for on-the-job training and skill bridge programs. The company is known for its commitment to providing exceptional experiences and treating everyone with honor and respect.Show Links

In this episode of the Harder Not Smarter podcast, host Kevin and Greg sit down with Michelle “MACE” Curran, a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot. Michelle shares her journey from being a shy child with social anxiety to becoming a public figure and a role model for women in aviation. She discusses the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome, the rigorous selection process to become a Thunderbird, and the pressures of being a public figure in a male-dominated field. Michelle also reflects on the physical demands of flying, the importance of support systems, and her transition after leaving the Thunderbirds. In this engaging conversation, Michelle Curran shares her experiences as a Thunderbird pilot and her transition to entrepreneurship. The discussion highlights the lack of support for physical fitness and mental health in the military, the challenges of public speaking, and the importance of maintaining a strong social media presence. Michelle also reveals the story behind her call sign and emphasizes the significance of physical fitness in achieving personal and professional success.

Show Links 

Get 1-month of FREE access to the ⁠Vet Collective Community⁠ by using discount code: NLT1UQTI 

Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.collective.vet⁠⁠⁠  

Episodes also available on Spotify, Apple, and Amazon Music. 

https://linktr.ee/harder_not_smarter
Michelle’s Links
https://macecurran.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/macecurran/
https://www.instagram.com/mace_curran/
https://www.facebook.com/macecurran/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Michelle Curran and the Thunderbirds

01:29 Michelle's Background and Overcoming Shyness

15:51 Applying and Joining the Thunderbirds

36:07 The Physical and Mental Demands of Being on the Thunderbirds

36:49 Challenges Faced by Thunderbird Pilots

45:31 Lack of Support and Resources for Pilots

50:25 Transitioning from the Military to Entrepreneurship

01:05:01 The Importance of Problem-Solving and Creativity in Entrepreneurship

01:06:57 The Fulfillment and Challenges of Entrepreneurship

01:08:15 Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt: The Power of Vulnerability

01:09:40 The Impact of Speaking Engagements: Inspiring and Motivating Others

01:13:16 The Process of Getting Published: From Manuscript to Children's Books

01:16:28 The Significance of Call Signs: Stories Behind the Names

01:19:39 The Importance of Physical Fitness for Mental Health and Focus
Takeaways

Michelle overcame her childhood shyness to become a public speaker.

Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for high achievers.

Public speaking skills can be developed through practice and exposure.

The pressure of being a role model can be overwhelming.

The selection process for the Thunderbirds is highly competitive.

Life as a Thunderbird pilot is physically demanding and exhausting.

Nutrition and health support for pilots is often lacking.

Chronic pain can be a significant issue for fighter pilots.

The importance of representation in aviation for young girls.

Transitioning from a high-profile role to civilian life can be challenging. 

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging but rewarding.

Public speaking can provide a platform for sharing personal narratives and inspiring others.

Social media is a powerful tool for building a personal brand and connecting with audiences.

Call signs in the military often have humorous or embarrassing origins.

Finding autonomy in one's career can lead to greater satisfaction and success.

Vulnerability can be a powerful tool in connecting with others and fostering success.

Keywords

Michelle Curran, Thunderbird pilot, imposter syndrome, public speaking, role model, Air Force, fighter pilot, aviation, women in aviation, overcoming challenges, military support, entrepreneurship, public speaking, social media, call sign, physical fitness, mental health, personal growth, vulnerability, success

Deed Ziegler, a former Marine Infantry and Intel officer, shares his experience transitioning from the military to entrepreneurship. He started his own CPG company, RecPak, while working a full-time job. Deed discusses his military background, including his time in Afghanistan and the challenges of being a ground Intel officer. He also talks about his decision to leave the Marine Corps and pursue an MBA, highlighting the value of the program in providing exposure to different industries and decision-making processes. Deed touches on the importance of networking and leveraging alumni networks, as well as the need to redefine one's identity after leaving the military. The conversation also delves into the joys of surfing and the meditative experience it offers. In this conversation, Deed discusses his experience starting his company, Rec Pack, which offers outdoor powdered meal replacements. He talks about the challenges of product development, finding the right team, and launching the product. Deed also shares insights on marketing and the importance of understanding your target audience. He emphasizes the need for perseverance, a beginner's mindset, and the willingness to learn from mistakes. Deed also praises the value of community, particularly in the veteran entrepreneurship space.

Kim "KC" Campbell, a former A-10 fighter pilot, shares her experiences and challenges as a female pilot in the Air Force. She discusses how she received her call sign, the unique camaraderie among A-10 pilots, and the physical demands of flying the aircraft. Kim also recounts her harrowing experience of being hit by enemy fire during a mission in Iraq and the difficult decision she had to make to land the damaged aircraft. Despite the challenges, Kim's determination and training allowed her to safely return home. Kim "KC" Campbell shares her experience of flying a damaged A-10 aircraft back to safety after being hit by a surface-to-air missile in Iraq. She talks about the challenges she faced during the flight, including loss of hydraulic systems and control, and the fear she felt throughout the ordeal. Despite the difficulties, she remained calm and confident, relying on her training and the support of her team. The aircraft sustained over 600 holes of damage but managed to make a successful landing.

Show Links

Get 1-month of FREE access to the ⁠Vet Collective Community⁠ by using discount code: NLT1UQTI

Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.collective.vet⁠⁠⁠

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.collective.vet⁠⁠⁠

Episodes also available on Spotify, Apple, and Amazon Music.

https://linktr.ee/harder_not_smarter

KC's Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-kc-campbell/

https://kim-kc-campbell.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Call Signs

03:54 Becoming an A-10 Pilot

05:05 Challenges as a Female Pilot

15:31 A Harrowing Experience in Iraq

28:39 Landing the Damaged Aircraft: Overcoming Fear and Doubt

40:22 The A-10's Resilience: Built to Take Hits

46:56 Transitioning from the Military: Finding Purpose and Passion

50:39 Sharing Stories and Lessons: Inspiring Others on Their Journeys

54:02 Putting in the Work: Overcoming Fear and Doing Hard Things

Takeaways

The call sign for A-10 fighter pilots is a rite of passage and often has a hidden meaning or acronym associated with it.

The camaraderie among A-10 pilots is strong, and they have unique traditions and celebrations within their squadrons.

Being a female pilot in a male-dominated field comes with challenges, but Kim Campbell proved herself through her skills and performance in the aircraft.

Kim's experience of being hit by enemy fire in Iraq and making the decision to land a heavily damaged aircraft showcases her bravery and determination.

Training and preparation are crucial for pilots to handle emergency situations and make split-second decisions.

The physical demands of flying an A-10 include experiencing high G-forces and the need to stay hydrated and in good physical shape.

Kim's story highlights the importance of teamwork and having a reliable wingman in challenging situations.

The A-10's mission of supporting troops on the ground is a driving force for pilots like Kim, who find purpose in their work. Facing fear and taking action in difficult situations is crucial.

Training and preparation are essential for handling challenging circumstances.

Having a supportive team can make a significant difference in overcoming obstacles.

Even in the face of damage and adversity, it is possible to achieve success.