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Today is the publication day for Jack Carr's latest thriller - CRY HAVOC. 

We head straight into Saigon, 1968—where every decision is made in the dark, alliances shift by the hour, and the only truth is what a character can see, feel, and survive. Jack walks us through the making of Cry Havoc, his ninth book, and why he delayed the release to honor the era’s constraints rather than bend them to modern expectations. We now enter the world of Tom Reece, the father of James Reece, the focus of Jack Carr's "The Terminal List" series.
 
We unpack the creative rule that shaped the book: no borrowing future knowledge to explain past events. That choice reshaped the plot, the pace, and even the language of the story. From MACV-SOG’s footprint and GRU maneuvers to a French doctor’s fragile neutrality and a Saigon business network tangled in war, the novel builds suspense through lived detail instead of digital shortcuts. Hear how influences like Graham Greene’s The Quiet American and Charles McCarry’s The Tears of Autumn guided tone without caging the story, and why this return to Vietnam-era espionage feels urgent today. We also follow the Reece and Hastings family lines, a long-arc investment that turns legacy into motive and keeps the world rich with future possibilities.
 
Jack shares how pandemic-era support for independent bookstores turned signed bookplates into a “shot-through” edition—title pages stacked tight and perforated with a CAR-15, echoing the rifles carried by MACV-SOG teams. It’s a hands-on tribute to readers, shops, and the physicality of story. 

We close with the real engine behind the series’ growth: grassroots readers who recommended the work to friends and kept the conversation alive long before spotlights and studios arrived. 

Share this podcast with a reader who loves historical & military espionage, and leave a review to help others find the show. 

Your word of mouth moves the mission.

To learn more about Jack Carr and his work, visit:
www.officialjackcarr.com

To learn more about the host, George Blitch, visit:
www.SonofaBlitch.com

JACK CARR - CRY HAVOC

1968. A time of division. A time of civil unrest. A time of war.

Just before the Tet Offensive, before President Johnson announces he will not run for reelection, before the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, as riots and protests rage across the nation, a spy ship is captured by communist forces off the coast of North Korea.

The crew thought they had destroyed everything of intelligence value. They were wrong.

As a KGB “illegal” elicits information from a high-ranking NSA official, and teams of special operators infiltrating into Laos, Cambodia, and North Vietnam disappear without a trace, an ambitious Soviet advisor launches an ingenious plan that could forever alter the world balance of power.

Tom Reece, a SEAL operator attached to the highly classified and shadowy MACV-SOG is about to be thrust into a bloody battle to discover the truth.

From the Kremlin to the White House, from the streets of Saigon to the rugged A Shau Valley, along the paths of Ho Chi Minh Trail and into the secret war in Laos, Navy SEAL Tom Reece has an official mission assigned by Military Assistance Command, Vietnam-Studies and Observations Group, but it’s his unofficial mission that might get him killed.

(This is episode is a condensed conversation from Ep. 108, to focus on the 9th book by Jack Carr, CRY HAVOC)

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The boundaries between passion and purpose dissolve in this captivating conversation with Adam Montgomery of Dex Imaging, who takes us on his journey from childhood shooting sessions with his grandfather to becoming a key sponsor of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) convention.

Adam's story begins with those formative days spent outdoors where he developed an appreciation for nature that would guide his life's path. By sixteen, he was bird hunting across Texas and Louisiana, drawn to the ever-evolving challenges and constant learning opportunities that hunting provides. But it wasn't until attending his first HSCF convention last January that Adam discovered something far more meaningful than a gathering of safari enthusiasts.

"I thought, like most people, it was just a club for people to go hunting on safaris," Adam reflects. "Not at all. It is truly a club of like-minded people that are about conservation, preserving land, preserving resources for the next generation." This revelation resonated deeply with Adam, particularly as a father wanting his two-year-old son to experience the peace and perspective that only comes from time spent in nature's quiet embrace.

What makes this partnership particularly powerful is Dex Imaging's remarkable commitment to community impact—donating one-third of their profits to non-profit charities. This alignment of values created what Adam calls "a match made in heaven," bringing together his personal passion, professional resources, and meaningful conservation work. As the upcoming convention approaches (January 23-25, 2026, in The Woodlands), Adam has embraced a leadership role as table sales chairperson and secured his personal mentor, retired Navy SEAL Captain Tom Chaby, as Thursday night's featured speaker.

Whether you're planning your first safari like Adam and his wife, seeking to understand wildlife management's crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, or simply looking for a welcoming community that celebrates the outdoors, the Houston Safari Club Foundation convention offers something for everyone. Experience for yourself what Adam discovered—a place where conservation meets community, and lifelong connections are formed.

Houston Safari Club Foundation

Dex Imaging 

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In the latest episode of the Son of a Blitch Podcast, Mike Flynt shares his remarkable journey from being kicked off his college football team in 1971 to returning at age 59 to become the oldest college football player in history. His story of redemption, captured in his book and the upcoming film "The Senior," demonstrates how it's never too late to rewrite your life's final chapter. 

Check out "The Senior" starring Michael Chiklis, in theaters on 9/19/2025, brought to you by Angel Studios

Film synopsis
At 59, Mike Flynt may be too old to be on a college football field, but not too old to feel the weight of unfinished business. After nearly four decades, he returns to his alma mater to take the hit that changed everything. Bruised, doubted, and nearly broken, he pushes for one more game, not for glory, but for the teammates he lost, the family he fractured, and the ending he still believes is possible.

Release Date
September 19, 2025

Director
Rod Lurie

Producers
Mark Ciardi
Campbell Mclnnes
Justin Baldoni
Andrew Calof

Writer
Robert Eisele

Website
www.angel.com/movies/senior

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Jesse Griffiths, renowned chef and author, recently launched The Pedernal Project—an innovative subscription-based platform dedicated to the complete journey of wild game and fish, from field to plate and breaking free from the constraints of traditional media while offering unparalleled educational content.

The genesis of The Pedernal Project stems from Jesse's desire to create a format where he could present his educational content without censorship or algorithmic interruptions. As Jesse explains, the current digital landscape has created challenges for content creators, particularly those who deal with hunting, processing, and cooking wild game.

The Pedernal Project currently features four main topics: dove, blue crabs, turkey, and the first chapter of a four-part feral hog series. Each topic is explored thoroughly, with detailed videos covering every aspect of the process. For instance, the hog processing video shows everything from the kill to field dressing to comprehensive butchery. This level of detail simply wouldn't be possible on many platforms.

What makes The Pedernal Project unique is its commitment to showing the complete picture. Jesse emphasizes the importance of not skipping steps in the process. From analyzing dove flight patterns to properly plucking birds, the content aims to maximize both respect for the animal and enjoyment for the hunter. As Jesse states, "If you can convince yourself to enjoy every step of the way... you're creating a more enjoyable life for yourself."

The platform continues to grow organically, with new recipes being added regularly. During dove season, Jesse documents new recipes as he cooks at home, photographing successful dishes and adding them to the site. This creates an ever-evolving resource that follows the natural hunting seasons. The subscription model ensures that this high-quality content can continue without the pressure to produce algorithm-friendly "fluff content" that many creators face on free platforms.

Beyond just techniques, Jesse incorporates traditions and personal touches that enhance the hunting experience. One fascinating example is his practice of collecting gizzard stones from turkeys in antique medicine jars purchased near his hunting locations. These small rituals create lasting connections to memorable hunts and add another dimension to the hunting experience.

By prioritizing quality over quantity and authenticity over algorithm-friendly formatting, Jesse has created a valuable resource for both novice and experienced hunters and cooks. The project's name itself—derived from "Pedernal," the Spanish word for flint—speaks to its foundational nature, providing the essential tools needed to fully appreciate and utilize wild game.

For those interested in exploring beyond The Pedernal Project, Jesse continues his work with The Wild Books, self-publishing ventures that include the acclaimed The Hog Book and The Turkey Book, both of which have received James Beard Award nominations. His partnership with photographer Jody Horton has allowed for complete creative control, producing books that present hunting and cooking with honesty and beauty.

As we enter a new era of digital content, The Pedernal Project stands as a testament to the value of expertise, authenticity, and independence. By creating a space free from the constraints of traditional publishing and social media platforms, Jesse Griffiths has developed a resource that honors the complete journey of wild food while building a community of like-minded enthusiasts committed to making the most of every aspect of hunting and cooking.

PedernalProject.com
TheWildBooks.com

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The genesis of Turtlebox Audio is a quintessential entrepreneurial story, as explained by Co-Founder Will Bradley. Thirteen years ago, four friends were living together on an acre of land along Buffalo Bayou in Houston. They needed a speaker that could withstand their adventurous lifestyle—something waterproof, durable, and loud enough to hear over boat engines. When they couldn't find what they wanted on the market, they built it themselves in their garage.

This wasn't initially intended to be a business venture. It was simply four friends solving their own problem. What happened next follows a familiar entrepreneurial trajectory—friends started asking where they could buy one. The team built about 50 units by hand in their garage, selling them to their immediate network. After that initial success, they realized they might be onto something bigger. Taking the leap into mass production wasn't easy, requiring nearly four years of development before their official launch on Indiegogo in 2018—coincidentally, the same day Will's daughter was born.
 
The product line has since expanded beyond the Original Turtlebox (now in its third generation) to include the smaller, mountable Ranger and the powerful Grande with its 10-inch woofer. What sets Turtlebox apart from competitors is their unwavering focus on outdoor performance. As Will explained, "Turtlebox is an outdoor speaker. It's built with the outdoors in mind. We do our sound curves outside, and it's the best performing outdoor speaker on the market."

Central to the brand is their "Live Free" ethos, which actually predates the company itself. Originating from a men's Christian retreat that Will attended, the phrase was initially displayed on the back door of their shared home as a daily reminder to "shake off the fear of man" and pursue authentic living. This philosophy naturally extended to the brand, encouraging customers to break free from routine and judgement and embrace adventure and freedom.

The company's commitment to music extends beyond just building speakers. Their "Box Sessions" program invites artists to perform intimate concerts at their headquarters, creating content that's shared across their platforms. This initiative connects musicians with the Turtlebox community while supporting artists' careers. Perhaps most notably, Shane Smith and the Saints created the brand's anthem, "Live Free," which debuted at Red Rocks Amphitheater.
 
What makes the Turtlebox story particularly compelling is the dedication and persistence of its founders. For years, they maintained full-time corporate jobs while building the company from 9 PM to midnight. This side hustle eventually grew into the thriving business we see today, with passionate customers sharing incredible stories about the product's durability and exception audio quality.
 
Turtlebox Audio exemplifies how solving your own problem can lead to creating something that resonates with others. By focusing on quality, authenticity, and community, these four friends from Houston have built more than just a speaker company—they've created a lifestyle brand that embodies their "Live Free" philosophy.

Visit TurtleboxAudio.com to learn more!
IG: @turtleboxaudio
FB: @turtleboxaudio

To learn more about the Host, George Blitch, visit:
SonofaBlitch.com
IG: TheSonofaBlitch

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LaMonica Garrett's journey from the football field to Hollywood sets is a masterclass in dedication, versatility, and seizing unexpected opportunities. The actor, known for his powerful performances in military and action roles, reveals how his athletic background provided the perfect foundation for his acting career.

In an intriguing twist of fate, Garrett found himself competing in SlamBall, a high-flying sport combining basketball, football and trampolines. What began as a misunderstanding – he initially thought Slam Ball was a scripted TV show – became a significant chapter in his life. His athletic prowess made him a standout, eventually leading to an all-star selection and league scoring title. More importantly, SlamBall unexpectedly bridged his worlds when he was cast as a SlamBall antagonist in a few episodes of One Tree Hill. This experience rekindled his passion for acting and provided his first television credits.

Garrett's portrayal of military characters, with roles in prestigious productions like The Terminal List, The Terminal List: Dark Wolf, Lioness, and 1883, have made him a fan favorite. His preparation is meticulous – from weapons training to tactical formations to deep conversations with veterans. This commitment to authenticity shines through in his performances, particularly in his recent monologue as Commander Cox in Episode 2 of Dark Wolf, where his character must strip a Navy SEAL of his Trident. Garrett's understanding of military culture and sacrifice, influenced by his own military family background, brings emotional weight to these scenes.
 
Another significant cultural representation was through his role as Thomas in the Yellowstone prequel, 1883. As a former slave turned cowboy, his character highlights the often-overlooked history of Black cowboys, who comprised approximately 25% of cowboys in the American West. Garrett speaks movingly about meeting Black cowboys across the country who approached him with tears in their eyes, thanking him for telling their family's stories. This cultural impact transcends entertainment, revealing how meaningful representation can honor forgotten histories. Host, George Blitch, also touches on his own family history with renowned Mustanger and former slave, Bob Lemmons, which, coincidentally, is a subject that initially connected Blitch and Garrett.
 
Throughout his career, Garrett has worked alongside legends like Morgan Freeman, Sam Elliott, and Linda Hamilton – encounters he approaches with humility and genuine appreciation – and shares some fun stories of their interactions.
 
Looking ahead, Garrett balances excitement for upcoming projects like Nightingale (filmed in Bulgaria) with a clear-eyed perspective on his career trajectory. He embraces being "typecast" in military roles, seeing each character as an opportunity to explore different facets of service in varied settings – from the 1800s American frontier to futuristic space missions. With physical roles still bringing him joy, he's making the most of his current capabilities while acknowledging that different types of roles will come with time.
 
LaMonica Garrett's story reminds us that success rarely follows a linear path. Through persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to fail "early and often," he's built a career that continues to evolve. As he notes with characteristic humility, he doesn't believe he's had his breakout moment yet – suggesting the best of his journey is still to come.

Follow LaMonica Garrett on social media @LaMonicaGarrett on Instagram, Facebook, X, and other platforms.

To learn more about the Host, George Blitch, visit:
SonofaBlitch.com
IG: TheSonofaBlitch

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The heart of conservation beats strongest when knowledge flows freely between generations. In this engaging conversation with Derek Ham, Convention Chairman of the Houston Safari Club Foundation, we explore how passion for the outdoors transforms into meaningful action.

Derek's fascinating journey from Lubbock-born ranch kid to LA music industry professional and finally to Texas ranch property broker offers a unique perspective on connecting people with wild spaces. His decision to join HSCF began with a simple lunch meeting that quickly evolved into leadership roles, driven by his dedication to youth education and outdoor experiences.

"It's much more satisfying to see someone shoot for the first time than to pull the trigger myself," Derek explains, capturing the essence of HSCF's mission. The organization's scholarship program has distributed millions to students pursuing conservation-related fields, while their hunting programs introduce young people to experiences they might otherwise never encounter.

While "Safari" might suggest African focus, HSCF embraces North American conservation equally, welcoming members from all backgrounds and experience levels. The annual convention (January 23-25 at Woodlands Waterway Marriott) represents their largest fundraising event, featuring exhibitors, auctions, entertainment, and specialized functions like the Gazelles brunch.

Derek emphasizes the incredible value of the HSCF community itself—a network where mentioning interest in any hunting experience triggers an outpouring of trusted recommendations and connections. For newcomers especially, this knowledge-sharing proves invaluable in navigating outfitters and destinations.

Whether you're a lifelong hunter or simply curious about conservation, HSCF offers multiple pathways to involvement through digital memberships, full memberships, and sponsorship opportunities at various price points. 

Join us at the Houston Safari Club Foundation Convention January 23-25, 2026, at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. 

Visit WeHuntWeGivе.org for tickets and information, and to discover how you can join this passionate community preserving our outdoor heritage for future generations!

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KJ Sawka recently returned to the podcast to discuss Pendulum's highly anticipated new album, “Inertia,” their first in 15 years. The album showcases a distinctive evolution in their sound, incorporating metal-inspired drumming with jungle beats—a combination that represents Sawka's musical sweet spot. The band's founder, Rob Swire, renowned as one of the best producers in the EDM space, meticulously crafts each track, spending hundreds of hours in the studio after the band records their parts. This dedication to production excellence has maintained Pendulum's position as pioneers in electronic music fusion.

The conversation shifts to Sawka's entrepreneurial ventures, particularly Impossible Records, which he founded around 2014. Despite achieving multiple number one hits on Beatport and helping launch careers, the label faced challenges with the rise of streaming services. As Sawka notes, it's "the dance with the devil"—platforms like Spotify are essential for discovery, yet often fail to provide sustainable income for creators.

This reality led Sawka to pivot toward mentoring other artists through his "Elevate Your Craft" program. Rather than releasing music for artists, he now provides comprehensive guidance on production techniques, career development, and the business aspects of music. His approach acknowledges that many creators are unprepared for the multifaceted demands of a music career—wearing "every hat of a business" from production to marketing. This mentorship represents Sawka's commitment to helping fellow artists navigate the complex modern music landscape.

Technology remains central to Sawka's performance approach. He details his current setup for solo shows, which has evolved from complex laptop-based systems to a streamlined Roland SPD-SX Pro drum pad that integrates seamlessly with DJ equipment. This evolution reflects both practical considerations—DJ tables growing smaller at venues—and the realization that audiences connect more with visible, tangible performance elements than complex behind-the-scenes technology. This pragmatic approach to technology demonstrates Sawka's adaptability throughout his solo career.

Perhaps most surprising is Sawka's newfound appreciation for country music, which he discovered during a stay at a remote A-frame house with no internet or running water. This unexpected musical direction has inspired a fusion project combining country elements with drum and bass—showcasing his continual musical evolution. Similarly, his perspective on AI in music production is nuanced and forward-thinking. While acknowledging the existential challenges AI presents for songwriters, he emphasizes the importance of engaging with rather than resisting technological change, drawing parallels to previous technological disruptions in the industry from vinyl to streaming.

As Pendulum embarks on their European tour, playing to tens of thousands of dedicated fans every night, Sawka reflects on the privilege of continuing to perform at this stage in his career. With a renewed appreciation for life balance and artistic expression, he remains committed to his craft while expanding his horizons both musically and personally. His journey exemplifies the resilience, adaptability, and passion required to thrive in today's music industry.

To follow KJ Sawka's journey, visit:
KJSawka.com
Pendulum.com
IG: KJSawka

To learn more about the Host, George Blitch, visit:
SonofaBlitch.com
IG: TheSonofaBlitch
YouTube.com/@sonofablitch

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In our recent conversation, Jack Carr provided fascinating insights into the upcoming prequel series "The Terminal List: Dark Wolf" and his ninth novel "Cry Havoc," both of which deepen the rich storytelling world he's created.

"Dark Wolf," premiering August 27th on Amazon Prime, explores the origin story of Ben Edwards, the complex character brilliantly portrayed by Taylor Kitsch in the original Terminal List series. As Carr explained, this prequel was born from the unexpected depth Kitsch brought to the role, elevating the character beyond how he was written in the books. The series begins in Mosul, Iraq in 2015, following Edwards as a Navy SEAL whose journey eventually leads him into the shadowy world of CIA operations.

What makes this series particularly special is the exceptional team assembled both in front of and behind the camera. Carr emphasized the family-like atmosphere created by Chris Pratt, director Antoine Fuqua, and showrunner David DiGilio. This collaborative spirit has attracted talented professionals who genuinely want to bring their best to the project. 
 
The commitment to authenticity is a cornerstone of Carr's creative approach. He describes their goal as "80% authenticity, 20% Hollywood hot sauce" – getting the details right while still crafting engaging entertainment. This meticulous attention extends to his upcoming novel "Cry Havoc," which presented unique challenges as historical fiction set in 1968 Vietnam.
 
Carr detailed the extensive research required to write authentically about this period, needing to examine everything through the lens of 1968. His dedication to historical accuracy and his level of immersion creates a rich, believable world that serves as the foundation for his espionage narrative.
 
"Cry Havoc" introduces readers to Tom Reese, James Reese's father, during his time with MAC V SOG in Vietnam. This expansion of the Reese family lineage, along with the Hastings family, opens opportunities for exploring generational stories of service and sacrifice. 
 
Beyond his creative outputs, Carr's commitment to veterans and independent bookstores demonstrates his values in action. He shared touching stories about his work with the Best Defense Foundation, which brings World War II veterans back to the battlefields where they served. Having these heroes attend premieres and after-parties creates powerful connections between generations. His innovative "signed and shot-through" editions of his books, available exclusively through independent bookstores, provide collectors with unique items while supporting small businesses challenged by online retail giants.
 
Throughout our conversation, Carr's humility and gratitude were evident. He attributes his success to readers who took a chance on him and shared his books with others, creating a grassroots movement that preceded any major media coverage. This appreciation for his audience drives his engagement across social media and his Danger Close podcast, where he features authors and interesting personalities.
 
Jack Carr's expanding universe of stories – from books to television series – continues to captivate audiences while honoring the service and sacrifice of military personnel. His work maintains the authenticity, depth, and respect that have become his signature as a storyteller.

To learn more about Jack Carr, visit:
OfficialJackCarr.com

To learn more about the Host, George Blitch, visit:
SonofaBlitch.com
IG: TheSonofaBlitch
YouTube.com/@sonofablitch

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"SKETCH" is a remarkable family film that defies conventional categorization, weaving together elements of heartfelt drama, monster adventure, and psychological insight. Producer Steve Taylor recently shared the extraordinary eight-year journey that brought this unique story to theaters, revealing both the creative vision and perseverance required to bring original content to life in today's sequel-dominated cinema landscape.

The film centers on ten-year-old Amber, who is processing grief after losing her mother six months prior. When her therapist suggests drawing her feelings into a sketchbook, Amber creates a menagerie of monsters that unexpectedly come to life, terrorizing her family and forcing them to confront their emotional struggles head-on. Taylor aptly describes the film as "a cross between Inside Out and Jurassic Park," a characterization that perfectly captures its blend of emotional depth and thrilling adventure. What makes the film particularly special is how each monster is rendered differently based on the medium Amber used to draw them – from Sharpies to crayons to chalk – with each requiring different strategies to defeat based on their artistic properties.

Behind the scenes, the film faced numerous challenges that almost prevented it from reaching audiences. Writer-director Seth Worley initially shopped the script around Hollywood with different producers, but despite attaching "Arrested Development" and "Veep" star Tony Hale to the project, studios repeatedly passed. It wasn't until Taylor stepped in and proposed making the film independently that "Sketch" finally moved forward. The production leveraged Worley's expertise as a VFX artist to create the film's elaborate monster sequences, though this process proved more challenging than expected, stretching from an anticipated three months to over a year and a half to perfect. The result, however, speaks for itself – "Sketch" currently holds a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

What truly distinguishes "Sketch" is its authentic approach to grief and emotional processing. Throughout the film, we see each family member coping differently with their loss, with Amber's creative outlet ultimately proving the most constructive. The film explores the central philosophy that while "you can't control your inbox, you can control your outbox" – a powerful message about managing emotions rather than suppressing them. Tony Hale delivers a surprisingly nuanced dramatic performance as Amber's father, bringing depth and vulnerability to a character navigating single parenthood without his wife's guidance. Hale reportedly advocated for emotional authenticity in his portrayal, rejecting easy comedic moments in favor of genuine reactions that ground the film despite its fantastical elements.

"Sketch" represents something increasingly rare in today's cinema landscape – an original, live-action family film not based on existing intellectual property. Taylor notes that we haven't seen such a successful original family film "since maybe Home Alone," highlighting both the creative achievement and the commercial risk the film represents. As audiences claim to want original content while box office numbers typically favor familiar franchises, "Sketch" stands as a test case for whether genuinely new stories can still break through in the theatrical marketplace. For families seeking entertainment that balances thrills with emotional substance, "Sketch" offers a unique cinematic experience that entertains while fostering important conversations about grief, creativity, and healing.

Another amazing movie brought to you by ANGEL STUDIOS
Hit theaters worldwide 8/6/25

To learn more about the host, George Blitch, visit:
SonofaBlitch.com
@thesonofablitch