Intro: Medal of Honor
• Edward Isaac, Naval Officer was captured by the Germans in 1918 (2:46)
• From the moment he was captured, he was trying to escape. (2:52)
• He jumped out of a moving train. The man just refused to give up. (3:02)
• He wanted to stop the whole damn war (3:35)
•  He would risk everything to bring his intelligence to the allies and help finally destroy the enemy fleet. (9:20)

THIS WEEK'S TEAM NEVER QUIT EPISODE
 
Defying the Odds — Vance Walker’s Back-to-Back Ninja Warrior Victories
This week on the Team Never Quit podcast, we welcome American Ninja Warrior legend Vance Walker, the first athlete in the show’s history to win back-to-back million-dollar championships. At just 19 years old, Vance has become a beacon of perseverance, grit, and unstoppable belief.
Born with spastic diplegia, a form of cerebral palsy that affected his ability to walk, Vance was told he may never walk without braces. But through years of determination and relentless training, he not only walked — he ran, jumped, climbed, and conquered Mount Midoriyama... twice.
In this episode, Vance shares His journey from leg braces to Ninja Warrior champion, the mental and physical challenges of competing in two seasons back-to-back, and what it means to represent those born with disabilities on a national stage, 
Whether you're chasing a personal dream or overcoming an obstacle of your own, this is an episode that will inspire you to keep climbing.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL HEAR: 
• [My mom] She gave me the mindset I’ve had ever since then, which is “Whatever it takes.” (14:47)
• At 17 months old I was diagnosed with cerebral Palsey and was told I might never be able to walk without braces on my legs. (15:05)
• If you don’t have hard things, you can’t get stronger. (22:54)
• I always wanted to be good at something, and there was always something that would keep me from being the best. And when I found Ninja, I was able to make my own scheduled, because Ninja Warrior is not a team sport. (25:08)
• I can make my own path in this. I can train any way I want to. If there’s an obstacle, there’s not [just] one way to do it. (28:27)
• Just like in life, you need a mentor. You need somebody who’s done things before to be able to see how to do things. (31:48)
• When was 12, I won my first national championship. (36:23)
• I want to get into speaking and sharing my story because that’s such as important part of this. (55:08)
• When I was a kid in school, I was always different from the other kids. I never fit in with anybody. The only thing that kept me going was the mindset that my mom gave me. (44:57)
• To become the best at something is already such an insane challenge, but I started from below everybody else. (55:43)
• Any challenge, any obstacle – Never give up. (58:00)
• The show is always the one thing I’m the best at. That’s where I’m at home. (63:04)
• I get that dismount, I hit the buzzer about a thousand times, and I just start bawling my eyes out, because I knew at that point no one was beating me on the rope. I did it. And I ended up winning a million dollars. (73:30)

NEVER QUIT THROUGH GRIEF
This week’s episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast features an extraordinary woman whose life has been marked by unimaginable hardship, relentless perseverance, and a mission to bring hope to others. Angela Skudin shares her deeply personal journey through chronic illness, devastating loss, and ultimately, purpose.

After battling Lyme Disease and debilitating co-infections that left her bedridden for more than a year, Angela found herself searching for answers beyond traditional medicine. When conventional treatments failed to restore her health, she courageously pursued alternative healing modalities and psychedelic-assisted therapies. By 2022, Angela had reclaimed her life—fully restored, prescription-free, and thriving once again.

But just as healing had begun, tragedy struck.

While on a family vacation celebrating Father’s Day and her husband Casey’s upcoming birthday, a catastrophic accident changed everything. In a final act of courage and selflessness, Casey used his instincts and training to protect his family when a falling tree crushed their vehicle—sacrificing his own life to save theirs.

In the wake of overwhelming grief, Angela chose to honor Casey’s legacy in a remarkable way. She founded The Casey Skudin 343 Fund, an organization dedicated to helping First Responders access holistic and alternative treatments for trauma, PTSD, and mental health struggles born from frontline service.

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, healing, sacrifice, and discovering purpose through pain. Angela’s story is one of unwavering determination and a reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, hope can still rise.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL HEAR:
• I had chronic Lyme Disease, mold toxicity, Moore-Jones disease, BCA Bartonella, and relapsing fever Borrelia. It shut my body down from head to toe. I had a heart condition, a thyroid condition, sand a skin condition, a neurological condition. (12:22)
• I melded together Western medicine with the holistic approach and was able to get out from under my disease in about 2 years. (14:00)
• Working out 7 days a week or working 7 days a week – those are going to bother your central nervous system. (15:34)
• Everything constantly changes, and it can change in your favor. (17:51)
• I was lying in a bed with sores all over my body and handfuls of hair falling out of my head. (20:15)
• No doctor in the United States could help me. (23:16)
• [After an Iboga treatment] So the night comes and I go to bed, and I wake up the next morning and I have slept like a baby all night long for the first time in my life. (27:05)
• I have so much more gratitude and love that came from that root. (28:03)
• [Melanie] There isn’t one person that can convince me that Ibogaine is bad, f it’s used with the right intention, for the purpose of healing. (41:18)
• It isn’t just for extreme people. It is for everyone. (54:21)
• My relationship with big pharma has been a big breakup. (56:46)

Support Angela:
- https://343fund.org/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio
Facebook: The Casey Skudin 343 Fund 
- IG: 343fund
- IG: Space Cowboy Coffee Co
- IG: Nornir Apothecary Shop
- IG: The Codfish Cowboy
- IG: Americans4Ibo

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

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Carry the Legacy: Turning Loss into a Lifelong Mission
This week, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Ryan Manion, a remarkable leader, advocate, and Gold Star sister whose life mission is rooted in service, resilience, and legacy.
Ryan’s story begins with the life and sacrifice of her brother, Travis Manion, a U.S. Marine who gave his life on April 29, 2007, in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, while drawing enemy fire away from his wounded teammates. But as Ryan shares in this episode, her life has not been defined by that tragedy—it has been inspired by it.
At the heart of Ryan’s journey is one defining character strength: bravery. It’s the courage to move forward, to persevere through unimaginable loss, and to live a life worthy of the sacrifices made by others. Travis’s legacy continues to shape every decision she makes, fueling a mission that impacts thousands across the country.
As the leader of the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), Ryan carries forward a vision first started by her mother—serving veterans, families of the fallen, and inspired civilians. Through her leadership, TMF has become a powerful force for mentorship, character development, and community impact. Ryan brings a unique balance to this work—combining deep purpose with a sense of humor and humanity that allows her to see beyond grief and into transformation.
Ryan also shares insights from her book, The Knock at the Door, co-written with fellow Gold Star women. Together, they recount the unbreakable bond formed through loss—and the strength found in choosing to move forward with purpose.
This episode is a powerful reminder that we only get one shot at life—and it’s up to us to make it count. Through service, resilience, and courage, Ryan Manion challenges us all to become the best versions of ourselves while lifting others along the way.

In This Episode You Will Hear: 
• What I love about the Naval Academy is that it’s so rich in tradition. (20:22)
• Post 9-11 veterans did more in 1 or 2 years than I did in 30 years. (22:30)
• I didn’t feel nervous or scared about [my brother] being in Iraq. (24:48)
• There was one night we were sitting at my house having a beer and he said “Hey, I just want you to know, if anything happens to me, I wanna be buried at Arlington.” (26:14)
• In the last conversation I had with him, I said “You’re over halfway done, you’re coming home soon“ and he was like, “I don’t think like that.” (29:14)
• We had like 30 people in our house when they showed up. We got the knock at the door. (32:49)
• One of my dad’s best friends that morning, woke up, got the KIA report, and saw Travis’ name on it. He said it was the hardest thing he ever had to do in his life - not pick up the phone and call my dad. (33:13)
• The officer did what he had to do and he walked to his car, and about a half hour later, I looked out the window, and he was still parked outside and had his head on the steering wheel. (35:03)
• Hearing those words that Travis had been killed, I just fell to the ground and started screaming “It’s not fair!” (35:41)
• And as I stepped inside, I remember thinking “Nothing’s ever gonna be the same again.” (36:55)
• To this day, nothing brings me more comfort than being around Travis’ friend because I feel like there’s a piece of him in the room. (42:53) 
• We are 18 years in, and we’re now one of the largest veteran’s service organizations in the country. (53:19)
•  I’s creating a community for veterans when they take off the uniform. (55:24)
• You look at our veteran population and they have some intangible skill sets that civilians just don’t have. (56:46)

Support Ryan:
  - ryanmanion.com
  - travismanion.org
 IG: rmanion

Order her book ——> https://amzn.to/4u9jML0
YouTube —> https://tr.ee/Z_U50I7eB_
Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org     
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  - bubsnaturals.com [Promo code TNQ]
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In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie are joined by none other than Phil Heath, a seven-time Mr. Olympia champion and one of the most iconic names in modern bodybuilding. Known as “The Gift,” Phil shares his journey from a basketball scholarship at the University of Denver to becoming one of the most genetically gifted and mentally driven athletes in bodybuilding history.
In this conversation, Phil opens up about his early days as a collegiate athlete, how he transitioned into bodybuilding, and what it truly takes to stay at the top of your game—physically and mentally. He also discusses and what discipline looks like when the lights are off and the crowd is gone.
Listen in as Phil also shares his endeavors in life after the stage—and what lies ahead.
Whether you're into fitness, personal development, or stories of rising to the top against all odds, this is a powerful episode packed with wisdom from a true champion.

In This Episode You Will Hear:
• I was an athlete my whole life. (3:36)
•  I was born in ’79. What a time to be alive. You saw greatness right in front of you through the athletes. (3:41)
• Violence is everywhere. You just have to play life with your eyes open. (6:19)
• I chose to be different. I was willing to be ridiculed by other people. I didn’t care. I just wanted to be focused, and always be competitive with myself. (7:04)
• I always wanted to be stronger, faster, and show more grit. So, I always wanted to be leading at the front. (7:41)
• Seeing other people’s life choices, and realizing that you have choices, and you have consequences. (8:13)
• [I thought] maybe, just maybe, God’s got something for me. (18:04)
• In my fifth year of college, I was looking for identity. (24:40)
• Proverbs 27:17 “Iron sharpens iron.” (25:50)
• Do your best. If you’re going to use social media, look at experts first. (30:30)
• I wanted to understand the champions. (31:38)
• I didn’t hire a coach or anything like that. I just trained with my friends and kinda - trial and error. (34:13)
• Be honest with yourself, and never say quit. (34:24)
• When I won the Mister USA competition in Las Vegas, 20 years ago – right before I go on stage, they come to my hotel room and they go “Here you go. You got the cover.” (37:44)
• It’s so amazing how God works. We meet (Jay Cutler), we take this photo, and we become best of friends. (42:53)
• Body building really is about validation in a way. (49:21)
• On my worst day, I have to make that day the best day in the gym. (51:39)
• [My dad used to say] “If I could put 2 feet on the ground, lace ‘em up, I can go to work.” (54:01)
• I put in the work. I had no training partner. I don’t even know how I did it. (56:25)
• I just knew that no matter what happens, I’m gonna be immortalized in history. (61:22)
• Your nickname is “The Gift”. What a better way to do that by honoring God. (79:00)
• I don’t want to latch on to something that ain’t for me, or for my wife, because I’ve gotta be the protector of her, too. (89:32)

Support Phil
  - https://phillipheath.com/ 
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAappHS4hPvOe7ko1g_VRIw IG: philheath

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org     
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  - bubsnaturals.com [Promo code TNQ]
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  - mizzenandmain.com   [Promo code: TNQ20]
   - masterclass.com/TNQ

  - Dripdrop.com/TNQ
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   - Tonal.com [TNQ]
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DOOM 34: The 35-Hour Mission That Helped Launch Desert Storm
Colonel Trey Morriss, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) is a former B-52 aviator, commander, and decorated combat veteran who served more than 31 years in support of the legendary Eighth Air Force. He joins Marcus and Melanie in the Team Never Quit podcast studio today. Colonel Morriss, a key figure in one of the most daring missions in modern military aviation, Trey was part of the record-setting opening strike of Desert Storm—the longest combat sortie in history at the time. After 9/11, he went on to fly 32 combat missions over Afghanistan and Iraq.

In this week’s episode, Trey takes us inside Operation Senior Surprise, the highly classified 35-hour, 14,000-mile mission—nicknamed Secret Squirrel—that helped launch Operation Desert Storm. Before the first bombs ever hit Iraq in 1991, seven B-52s quietly lifted off from Louisiana carrying the weight of a mission so secret most of the crews hadn’t even known it existed until months earlier.

What followed was one of the most extraordinary combat operations ever attempted: the first combat use of GPS-guided cruise missiles, a nonstop endurance test of grit and discipline, and a no-fail mission filled with life-or-death challenges. Trey recounts losing an engine minutes after takeoff, a near midair collision during night aerial refueling, and a dangerously low-fuel return across the Mediterranean.

But this conversation is about more than aviation history. It’s about leadership under pressure, trust in the cockpit, accountability when everything is on the line, and the responsibility of earning the right to come home. Trey also reflects on the deeper meaning behind service and honoring those who have “gone west.”

If you’re into B-52 bombers, Desert Storm, military aviation, leadership under stress, and stories of endurance against the odds, this is an episode you do not want to miss.

In this episode you will hear:





Support Tret:
-order his book —>  https://amzn.to/4dmP77L
- IG —> treymorriss

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org     
  - mengotomars.com [Team Never Quit]
  - bubsnaturals.com [Promo code TNQ]
  - davidprotein.com/TNQ
  - mizzenandmain.com   [Promo code: TNQ20]
   - masterclass.com/TNQ

  - Dripdrop.com/TNQ
  - ShopMando.com [Promo code: TNQ]
  - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes
  - meetfabiric.com/TNQ
  - Prizepicks (TNQ)

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   - Tonal.com [TNQ]
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From Victim to Victor: Wendi Rees on Faith, Trauma, and Unexpected Paths to Healing

What if the tools for healing were already placed within God’s creation? And what if the journey toward restoration could be both deeply spiritual and profoundly transformative?
This week’s Team Never Quit Podcast guest, Wendi Rees, is an author, speaker, and podcast host who brings a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and healing. In her new book, The Christian’s Guide to Psychedelics: Finding Hope and Healing Through God’s Creation, Wendi explores a thoughtful and faith-centered perspective on the role certain substances—such as Ibogaine, Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine—may play in addressing trauma, addiction, and depression.
But at the heart of Wendi’s story is not a substance—it’s Jesus Christ.
A survivor of childhood sexual abuse beginning at age 11, Wendi spent decades wrestling with the lasting effects of trauma, shame, and identity. Through faith, prayer, and a long journey of surrender, she discovered a powerful truth: the Bible does not define believers as victims, but as victors through Christ.
In this deeply honest conversation, Wendi shares how learning to see herself through God’s eyes rather than the lens of trauma became a turning point in her life. She opens up about the difficulty of trusting others after abuse, the challenge of releasing burdens to God, and the transformative power of understanding the unconditional love of the Father.
Wendi explains that her work and writing are not about promoting psychedelics—but about exploring whether some of God’s creations, when approached prayerfully and responsibly, might serve as tools that point people back to the ultimate source of healing: Jesus.
Today, she helps individuals and groups walk through journeys of resilience, faith, and holistic wellness—encouraging people to move from pain toward restoration and from victimhood to victory.

In this episode you will hear:
• I grew up believing: drinking, drugs, and anything sexual was a one-way ticket to hell. (9:25)
• When we moved to Texas, I was shocked to find out that not only were my parents getting divorced, but this other couple from our church was also getting divorced, and my dad was marrying her, and my mom was marrying him. So, they just swapped partners. (9:55)
• Being the oldest kid, I provided the most sermon examples. (13:45)
• Our corporal punishment, today would be [considered] child abuse. (14:01)
• This was all going on while he was molesting me. (15:48)
• I had five abusers. I did not have relationships with these other people like I did with my dad. (19:31)
• I ended up in a topless bar almost over 2 years, trying to get back control over my body & my sexuality that had been stolen from me. (23:22)
• When your dancing, you’re not praying. (25:20)
• I saw God through the eyes of my father, very scary and ready to smite me at any time. (25:51)
• A lot of people don’t talk about it. It’s like a taboo thing. They feel the shame of it as if somehow, it’s a reflection of them. (29:41)
• I needed a lot of healing. I had a TBI, complex PTSD, nothing was working. (35:41)
• When I decided to try Ibogaine as a last resort, it was so profoundly God’s presence. He literally came and rescued me. (36:06)
• God met me and gave me what I needed in that moment. (46:12)
• We make it so hard as Christians to even communicate with God. (52:01)
• Jesus is the only answer. Iboga is the tool that He used in my life. (57:18)
• There’s nothing wrong with needing help. (84:37)

Support Wendi:
-order her book —>  https://amzn.to/4bhonnR
- podcast —> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-talk-with-wendi/id1579578886
- IG —> Wednirees

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org     
  - bubsnaturals.com [Promo code TNQ]
  - davidprotein.com/TNQ
  - mizzenandmain.com   [Promo code: TNQ20]
   - masterclass.com/TNQ

  - Dripdrop.com/TNQ
  - ShopMando.com [Promo code: TNQ]
  - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes
  - meetfabiric.com/TNQ
  - Prizepicks (TNQ)

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   -  PXGapparel.com/TNQ
  - bruntworkwear.com/TNQ

   - shipsticks.com/TNQ

   - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}

   - Tonal.com [TNQ]
  - greenlight.com/TNQ

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - Hims.com/TNQ

From Navy SEAL to Venture Builder:
Nuri Golan on Turning Elite Operators into Elite Entrepreneurs

In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie are joined by Nuri Golan, a man who proves that elite performance doesn’t end when the uniform comes off — it evolves.
A Veteran and Officer in the Israeli Navy SEALs, Nuri transitioned from high-stakes maritime operations to high-impact venture creation. Today, he is a serial entrepreneur, startup advisor, investor, and Managing Partner of Vetted — a powerful platform helping combat veterans build world-class companies.
In this episode, Nuri shares how the mindset forged in special operations becomes a competitive advantage in the startup arena.

Building & Exiting Multiple Companies
Nuri’s entrepreneurial track record is nothing short of remarkable:
·         Co-Founder & CEO of EXO Technologies (acquired by Lear Corporation)
·         Co-Founder of Navmatic (acquired by Superpedestrian)
·         Co-Founder of Sosivio
After EXO’s acquisition, Nuri went on to lead Lear’s corporate venture arm — investing in startups and venture funds, gaining firsthand insight into what separates promising founders from scalable operators.
He brings a rare perspective: he’s been the founder, the acquirer, and the investor.

Vetted: Unlocking the Entrepreneurial Power of Combat Veterans
Today, Nuri serves as Managing Partner of Vetted — an education, acceleration, and investment platform designed specifically for combat veterans from the U.S. and Israel.
Through:
·         The Vetted Startup Accelerator
·         The Alpha-Bet Entrepreneurship Program
Vetted equips veterans with:
·         Hands-on mentorship
·         Early-stage funding
·         Tactical business education
·         A powerful cross-border founder & investor network
The mission is clear: transform operational excellence into entrepreneurial success.

Bridging Two Innovation Powerhouses
As an Israeli-American, Nuri is passionate about strengthening collaboration between U.S. and Israeli veteran communities — two ecosystems known for innovation, resilience, and leadership.
He believes elite combat veterans represent one of the most untapped entrepreneurial resources in the world — disciplined, decisive, mission-driven leaders ready to build companies that matter.
This conversation with Nuri Golan delivers powerful insight from someone who has operated — and succeeded — at the highest levels.

 In this episode you will hear:
• By the time he was 19 or 20 [my grandfather] had already graduated from college and was in the U.S. Army. (8:31)
• You don’t have to precheck in Israel because it’s mandatory service for Israeli’s. (9:25)
• We saw our family with tattoos on their arms from death camps and concentration camps they were sent to. (19:19)
• In Israel, all of our officers are “Mustangs.” (Prior enlisted and then cross over to become officers) (26:51)
• In Israel, you don’t really have a lot of senior enlisted guys, especially operators. The most senior guys – the ones with the most experience – are officers. (30:11)
Israeli Arabs, who are Israeli citizens, don’t have to serve. Ulta orthodox Jews are also exempt from service. (31:44)
• [Marcus] Do something for your people. (37:01)
• I really wanted to help create a program to help show them [combat veterans] how to utilize the skills they got from their military training and service in the business world, because I realized that a lot of the skills that I got from the military is what helped me become a successful entrepreneur.0 (40:46)
• Our program is open to all combat veterans from U.S and Israel. We also started an entrepreneurship school.0 (43:53)
• Hamas operators don’t walk around with rifles. (57:51)
• Their command centers are all under Mosques and hospitals by design. (58:37)
• There’s always conflict so you’ll go to Tel-Aviv in the middle of the war and you’ll still see people on the beach playing volleyball, and out at restaurants. We have to continue to go on. That’s how you fight terrorism. (61:36)
• Israel is one of the most important partners that the United States has in the global landscape. (66:36)

Support Nuri:
- https://accelerator.thevetted.vc/ 
Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org     
  - bubsnaturals.com [Promo code TNQ]
  - davidprotein.com/TNQ
  - mizzenandmain.com   [Promo code: TNQ20]
   - masterclass.com/TNQ

  - Dripdrop.com/TNQ
  - ShopMando.com [Promo code: TNQ]
  - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes
  - meetfabiric.com/TNQ
  - Prizepicks (TNQ)

   - armslist.com/TNQ

   -  PXGapparel.com/TNQ
  - bruntworkwear.com/TNQ

   - shipsticks.com/TNQ

   - stopboxusa.com {TNQ}

   - Tonal.com [TNQ]
  - greenlight.com/TNQ

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - Hims.com/TNQ

Protecting the Voiceless: Bill Waybourn on Human Trafficking and Hidden Abuse

This week, Marcus and Melanie sit down with one of Texas’ most respected law enforcement leaders and advocates for the vulnerable — Sheriff Bill Waybourn.
With more than three decades of service, Bill’s career has been defined by courage, conviction, and a relentless commitment to protecting both communities and the voiceless.
From pioneering groundbreaking DWI reform programs to shaping Texas firearm legislation, Bill has stood at the intersection of public safety, constitutional rights, and moral responsibility.
But beyond the badge, Bill’s story is also one of deep compassion — especially when it comes to children in need.
Bill served 31 years as Chief of Police in Dalworthington Gardens, where he became a recognized expert witness and leader in statewide criminal justice reform.
He is credited with pioneering the Texas “No Refusal” DWI program, a model that has significantly reduced drunk driving fatalities and has since been adopted by multiple states.
Bill has also testified before the Texas Legislature on a myriad of key issues.
Bill is especially honored to have helped pass the Chris Kyle Bill, which streamlines the process for military servicemen and women transitioning into law enforcement careers.
His dedication to veterans and service members reflects a lifelong commitment to those who have sacrificed for this country.
During his first term as Sheriff, Bill launched several nationally recognized initiatives, including a Human Trafficking Unit, a Department of Intelligence, aggressive inmate service programs, less-than-lethal training expansion, and cutting-edge departmental reforms.
Bill and his wife Laura Waybourn are the proud parents of ten children, eight of whom have been adopted.
Together, they are passionate advocates for children without families, and their lives are rooted in service far beyond law enforcement.

A Heartbreaking Story of Survival: Alyssa
One of the most emotional moments in this episode comes as Bill shares the story of his foster daughter Alyssa, who endured horrific medical abuse as a toddler.
He recounts how Alyssa was severely malnourished, weighing only 18 pounds, dehydrated, and tragically harmed by her biological mother through Munchausen syndrome by proxy — a form of abuse where caregivers fabricate illness for attention or control.
Under proper medical care, Alyssa began to flourish — but her story shines a light on a rarely discussed form of child abuse that demands awareness and action.
This conversation is equal parts intense, inspiring, and deeply human — a reminder that real leadership means protecting those who cannot protect themselves.

In this episode you will hear:

• My dad believed in practical lessons. After bragging that I was the best cowboy on the ground today, and my dad put me on a Bramer steer. I lasted about a second and a half on that ride. He went from there teaching about humility, and how it’s a biblical principle, and I needed to learn about that. (9:10)
• One of the things that the Air Force did well is that they taught you leadership, independence, and discipline all at the same time. (15:56)
• I was 24 years old, and the Police Chief resigned. The city council interviewed a bunch of people and about an hour and a half later, they called me back and said, “You’re the Chief.” (20:34)
• [Marcus] Q: Explain to me the difference between a constable, a police officer, and a sheriff. (A: Starts at 22:40 and runs thru 28:14)
• There’ve been some great moments throughout my career. My [most memorable events] were surrounded by life-saving stuff. (30:57)
• As Sheriff, I was blessed to make a human trafficking unit. We are now moving close to 1,200 rescues. (31:42)
• Our daughter, Alyssa, at 3 ½ years old, weighed 18 pounds, and was on 17 meds and a feeding tube. She went septic. It was later proved that her biological mother put human feces and urine into her feeding tube. (34:34)
• We were honored that God called us to take her in. (40:36)
• I met Chris Kyle right after he came home in ’09. (55:29)

Support Bill:
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/sheriffwaybourn?igsh=cHU1eWt6djMzdGF3

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

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Forged by Fire: Jesse James on Craftsmanship, Controversy, and Reinvention

This week, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Jesse James, one of the most influential custom motorcycle builders of the modern era. A fabricator at heart and an old-school craftsman by trade, Jesse is best known as the founder of West Coast Choppers, a brand that redefined the custom chopper world with raw metal, rigid frames, and uncompromising attention to detail.
Jesse’s journey began in his mother’s garage, where he learned the art of fabrication under the mentorship of legendary hot rod builder Boyd Coddington. What started as a passion for building with his hands quickly evolved into a full-scale operation in Long Beach, California—one that would grow to employ more than 50 people and produce hand-built motorcycles commanding prices from $50,000 to $150,000.
His rise to national fame came through the Discovery Channel’s Motorcycle Mania, which gave viewers an unfiltered look into his shop, his process, and his relentless standards. That exposure led to Monster Garage, cementing Jesse as a household name and a defining figure in reality-based automotive television.
Known for crafting—not assembling—his bikes, Jesse’s signature style emphasizes stretched frames, precision metalwork, and function-driven design over flash. His work has been commissioned by high-profile clients including Kid Rock and Shaquille O'Neal, further solidifying his influence across culture, sports, and entertainment.
In 2010, after facing both personal and business challenges, Jesse closed the original West Coast Choppers headquarters and relocated to Texas. There, he rebuilt—both personally and professionally—continuing to create custom machines and expanding into new ventures, including firearms manufacturing and direct-to-consumer media through platforms like OTLW.tv.
In this episode, Jesse opens up about learning discipline and skill the hard way, building a brand from nothing, the cost of fame and fast success, and why craftsmanship, grit, and honesty still matter
This is a raw, no-nonsense conversation about earning your skills, owning your mistakes, and building something real—one weld at a time.

In this episode you will hear:
• I went to Iraq in ’03, a month after we invaded. We did a USO tour and Kid Rock went and invited me. Nobody from USO knew who I was, so I told them I was, so I lied and said I was his tour manager. (1:13)
• I ended up going t jail my senior year for stealing cars. (14:47)
• I went to college and it was like crabs trying to get out of a barrel. (15:25)
• I was always working in the garage, building bikes. I had a Harley in High school. I was restoring bicycles, and building Volkswagons and sending them to Japan. I was hustling. (16:11)
• From my parents being antique dealers, I had a huge, pretty valuable tin toy collection. Like really rare Mark 10 toys worth thousands of dollars. I loaded ‘em up in my car and took ‘em to the big toy show in Pasadena. I sold them all to a dealer, and I used that money to buy a mill and a lathe and a welder for my garage. (23:27)
• If you’re gonna wait for the right time, that’s never coming. (23:51)
• My dad started me really young working. I literally despised him for it. And now I’m thankful because I have this relentless work ethic. (25:01)
• I restored a 1940 or ’41 bicycle called the Hiawatha Chippewa. I bought it for $100. (29:08)
• The first thing I ever made was a dust pan. (32:33)
• I was getting pai $750 a week salary, and at night I was making about 15 grand a week, making and shipping fenders. (43:56)
• If you would watch the Discovery channel in ’99 and 2000, they would run [my documentary on how a motorcycle gets built by hand] over and over. It was the highest rated show in the history of the network. (53:32)
• I did 118 cars. (56:43)
• I love taking about what I do. I love interaction. (60:11)
• [Marcus] When you’re driving into work early – with an hour difference – what type of cars are on the road early in the morning as opposed to the ones during rush hour. I heard that. (61:47)
• Success in this country, and in the world, isn’t defined by tactile skills. (62:40)
• I’m eliminating everything in my life that keeps me from working and being a craftsman. (63:48)

Support Jesse:
-  IG: popeofwelding
- https://westcoastchoppers.com/
- https://jessejamesculinary.com/ 

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org     
  - selectquote.com/TNQ
  - davidprotein.com/TNQ
  - mizzenandmain.com   [Promo code: TNQ20]
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  - Dripdrop.com/TNQ
  - ShopMando.com [Promo code: TNQ]
  - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes
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Making the Invisible Visible: A SEAL’s Mission to Redefine Mental Health

This week on the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Jonathan Wilson, founder and CEO of INVI MindHealth, a groundbreaking mental-health technology company built on one powerful mission: to save and improve lives by making the invisible visible.
Jonathan’s journey is anything but ordinary. He began his professional career serving over a decade as a United States Navy SEAL, deploying to multiple combat theaters across several SEAL Teams. After leaving active duty, he carried the mindset of service into the private sector—first as an equity trader at Goldman Sachs in New York City, and later at Capital Group.
In 2012, Jonathan co-founded and led the SEAL Future Foundation (SFF), a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting Navy SEALs in their transition beyond service. Under his leadership, SFF has helped thousands of SEALs and returned millions of dollars to the community—providing support in education, career development, and long-term well-being so operators can continue a life of service.
Now, through INVI MindHealth, Jonathan is tackling one of the most critical challenges facing both the military and civilian worlds: mental health. INVI’s technology leverages objective data to provide early insight, awareness, and intervention—bridging the gap between how someone looks on the outside and what’s happening on the inside.
Jonathan also brings elite academic credentials to the table, holding an MBA from the University of Oxford and graduating from the Program for Leadership Development at Harvard Business School.
This is a conversation about purpose, prevention, and pushing the mission forward—no matter the battlefield.

In this episode you will hear:
• I inevitably landed on a book that I found from Vietnam: The Frogman Book and I thought: “What is this?” I read that and I was like: “This is it. This is what I wanna be.” (24:39)
• Looking back now, I think the Lord is probably teaching me a lesson. I got caught with a fake ID card. You’re done. From that point I hit one of lowest points. (27:22)
• [I went to SEAL] Team 4. We ended up going to Bagdad. I did back-to back. It’s what team guys want. We were doing DA’s, hostage rescues; we were operating damn near every night. (45:16)
• After being married and with 5 kids, and we had lost a lot of friends – maybe it’s time to get out and I agreed. (48:04)
• In my head I was thinking, what’s the next hardest thing? That’s how my brain thinks. (48:40)
• I didn’t think I’d fit outside. I partially still feel that way. (50:32)
• SEALS wasn’t my purpose. I think being a father and a Christian is. But I think the Lord put me on this planet to really see this business we’re creating of helping as many people as possible with their mental suicide. Empowering them to be the best version of themselves they can be. (55:13)
• We created INVI Mind Health. (IInvisibleVisible)  (57:12)
• We created an algorhythm that pulls all the biometrics from any wearable you’ve got, and we help you get your mind score. (63:22)
• [Marcus] When team start to spiral, they’ll pull away. They don’t want to detonate in front of their buddies. (66:34)
• Our mission is to save lives by making the invisible visible. (72:29)

Support Jonathan:
 - invi app
- https://invimh.com/ 
- IG: jdbemore
- IG: invimindhealth

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes
  - Navyfederal.org     
  - mizzenandmain.com   [Promo code: TNQ20]

- Dripdrop.com/TNQ
  - ShopMando.com [Promo code: TNQ]
  - meetfabiric.com/TNQ
  - masterclass.com/TNQ
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