049 - Matthew “Griff” Griffin and Blayne Smith, Veterans on Afghanistan

Episode 049 begins with a piece written by Matthew “Griff” Griffin through the voice of the Taliban watching the withdrawal of US forces in Afghanistan. This conversation was recorded August 19, 2021 -- important context given more recent events. Jason and Rich are joined by fellow veterans Griff and Blayne Smith to share their perspectives and recommendations for action for those who have served as well as civilians. It is a “license to feel” through surreal, confusing, frustrating events, as well as a call to take care of those that have borne the brunt of the wars of the last 20 years. Griff is a 2001 West Point Graduate; Army Ranger, Combat Veteran with the 75th Ranger Regiment (3x Afghanistan, 1x Iraq); and CEO of Combat Flip Flops, which he co-founded in Kabul, Afghanistan. Blayne, of Episode 006 of Glorious Professionals, is also a graduate of West Point; former Green Beret combat veteran of 3rd Special Forces Group in Afghanistan in 2009; former Executive Director of Team Red White & Blue; and co-Founder of Applied Leadership Partners. Links: VeteranCheckIn.org Original Post on Combat Flip Flops Episode 006 - Blayne Smith “Pet” - A Perfect Circle SIGAR.mil Ben Bunn Instagram Post and Episode 021 VA Veterans Crisis Line, GetHeadstrong.org, Cohen Veterans Network, Vets4Warriors Learn more about GORUCK Glorious Professionals podcast website