Team Never Quit

In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie visit with Taya Kyle, an author, political commentator, and military veteran's family activist. Taya is widely known as the widow of US Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, whose story was immortalized in the book and movie "American Sniper."

Taya was unexpectedly thrust into the national spotlight when her husband, Chris Kyle, one of America’s greatest heroes, was tragically murdered. Chris Kyle’s legacy as a Navy SEAL and his extraordinary combat tours were shared with the world through his autobiography and its film adaptation. Despite the immense grief and pain, Taya has continued to honor Chris' life and service by dedicating herself to helping others navigate through their own tragedies.

As a New York Times best-selling author, Taya’s first book, "American Wife," offers a deeply personal look at her life with Chris. In 2019, she released her second book, "American Spirit," a collection of inspirational short stories about remarkable individuals she has encountered on her journey. Taya’s commitment to uplifting others extends through her foundation, Taya and Chris Kyle Family - Service Marriage Strong, where she provides support and hope to those facing difficult times.

Join us for an episode filled with hope, strength, and the enduring American spirit.

• [McKnenna] I kind of always looked at everything as negative, and tried to find the negative in things. {21:06)

• Go find people that who are so broken themselves. To come out of that is God’s grace. It is 100% God’s grace. (23:57)

• Colton said, I’ve never seen an example of spiritual warfare, as much as I saw it with McKenna. (24:37)

• [Melanie] We all make mistakes. We’re not born parents (30:51)

• The parents are losing their time with the kids, and they’re expecting the schools to do it. I advise every single person to homeschool. Be done. (37:18)

• [McKenna] If there is an adult role model who is teaching them and showing them how to act, it is very helpful. (45:52)

• There are some [teachers] that enjoy teaching or children, but a lot of them just enjoy power and control. (52:40)

• Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation. And Service Marriage Strong. In marriage, 80% of murder-suicide is relationship related, not because of the people in it doing things wrong, but they don’t have the tools they need for a service marriage. (55:18)

• We’re coming in to coach them on their strengths and how to use their strengths in marriage. (56:13)

• If knowing that you’re not alone in your thoughts that you’ve kept it all to yourself. (57:17)

• The happiness of your marriage impacts your children. (57:59)

• [Marcus’ advice to Taya] You don’t have to be planning so much. Just show up. Do what you do, and God’s got it covered. (67:53)

• Do something that you feel called to do. (69:56)

• You have a responsibility to add goodness to the world. (97:21) 

- IG: tayakyle

- www.tayakyle.com

- https://www.tackf.org/

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

   - Policygenius.com

   - GoodRX.com/TNQ

   - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Sean Glass, a former U.S. Navy SEAL officer and seasoned leadership instructor with Echelon Front. With over 13 years of experience in the SEAL Teams and combat deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Eastern Africa, Sean shares his insights on leadership in both military and business settings.

Sean led 5 SEAL platoons in Iraq against Islamic State forces, and was the Officer-in-Charge of training for all West Coast SEAL Teams.

In his transition to the business world, Sean became the Chief Operating Officer at a venture-backed construction tech startup, and is currently the Leadership Instructor at Echelon Front, where he is building a decentralized, team-first culture in a rapidly growing company.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sean Glass as he shares invaluable lessons on leadership that can be applied in any high-pressure environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from a true leader who has navigated the challenges of both the battlefield and the boardroom.

• [Growing up] we had Emus at one time for some reason. (7:46)

• I read that book, and something inside me was alive, like “This is what I wanna do” Everything I did after that was asking myself that question:  Is this next move gonna help me get into the Navy? and if it’s not, then I didn’t do it. (17:25)

• [Marcus] I feel like our saving grace is the fact that we did it for God and country. If you’re a wild child and you wanna have the most fun of your entire life, go into the SEAL teams. (19:36)

• Given a boat crew, If you don’t perform - if you screw up, your boat crew get beats for you. Sorry – remediated – gets remediated for you. (24:51)

• The less you think about yourself, especially when you’re miserable, the better off you are. (25:18)

• [Marcus] If you want to teach your son or yourself to be a great barterer or negotiator, go over there [Afghanistan]. (41:24)

• Gift giving is a big thing to them [Afghans]. (41:54)

• Getting to be on the other side of the BUDS equation was a great experience, because you get to see all the workings that go into it - all the things you don’t see and appreciate as a student obviously because you’re just trying to survive. (44:21)

• I don’t have a good poker face. (45:33)

• No one puts a premium on training like the SEAL teams do. It’s everything for us. (54:26)

• I closed out my career at the training command which was just the best place you could possibly be. (55:21)

• Our goal there [Echelon Front] is to arm their leaders with the tools they need to be better leaders. (65:42)

• Jocko started Primal Beef, and our goal was to bring the same farm-raised all natural, Black Angus American beef that we had the opportunity to eat every night to as many Americans as we possibly could. (70:03)

• Our whole goal was basically to make things the best experience you could possibly have ordering beef from somebody. (74:49)

• Well above 80% of all beef produced in America comes from 4 different massive companies, and at least one of them is a foreign owned company. (77:55)

• The average age of a farmer right now is 63 years old, because families just aren’t taking over the family business. (78:06)

- IG: primalbeef_co

- IG: seanglassactual

- www.primalbeef.com

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

   - Policygenius.com

   - GoodRX.com/TNQ

   - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus & Melanie connect with Josh Smith, Master Bladesmith. His journey into the world of bladesmithing began at the young age of 11, under the mentorship of his baseball coach, Rick Dunkerley. Rick introduced Josh to the art of knife-making, guiding him through the process of removing stock blades.

Josh set up his own shop at home, thanks to his father, who provided him space in his equipment shop. By the age of 12, Josh had joined the American Bladesmith Society, marking the start of his formal journey into bladesmithing.

At 14, Josh attended the Eugene Oregon knife show, where he met other talented knife makers who generously shared their knowledge with him. This experience further fueled his passion and skill in the craft.

At just 15 years old, Josh passed the rigorous Journeyman bladesmith test at the Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia, becoming the youngest bladesmith to achieve this feat. The Journeyman test involves a performance test, where a forged and heat-treated blade must chop a 1” rope and two 2x4s in half and still be able to shave hair. The blade must also withstand a 90-degree bend in a vise without breaking. Following the performance test, the candidate presents five knives to a panel of Mastersmith Judges for evaluation of craftsmanship.

Josh didn't stop there. He continued to hone his craft and, at 19, became the youngest bladesmith to earn the prestigious Master Smith rating from the American Bladesmith Society.

Tune in to hear more about Josh's incredible journey and the dedication it takes to become a master of bladesmithing!

• I passed the Mastersmith test when I was young, so technically, I’m a master bladesmith. 

• That [Mastersmith] test and getting there was a lot of work over a lot of years, but really what is meant is you’re really now ready to start learning. You can actually absorb what you’re being taught.

• If you’re looking back at something you built 20 years ago, and you’re still thinking that’s the best thing you’ve ever done, you’ve really gotta be honest with yourself. You really haven’t come very far.

• There’s a picture of me in Blade Magazine when I’m about 12, standing on a milk crate grinding knives.

• I was pretty motivated. At 15 years old, I became the youngest journeyman knife-maker in the world, and then at 19 I became the youngest Mastersmith.

• I started getting publicity in magazines when I was really young. When I was 16 years old, I probably had 150 knife orders from all over the world.

• It’s amazing today, with what’s at your fingertips, you can learn how to do anything right from home.

• Nothing even today replaces being in the presence of that master and having them teach you.

• Style comes over time.

• One thing I’m proud of – I didn’t fall into making one style of a knife. I can do almost anything across the board. That is what a master is.

• I won the best Damascus knife award in the world at the Atlanta Blade Show when I was 20 years old.

• I’ve sharpened thousands of knives for people. It doesn’t matter who made it. What matters is who carried it.

• I don’t need 300million Americans to be my customer. I want the 20-30-40-50 million that are patriotic as hell and appreciate quality. They want that story behind the blade. We’re proving that American manufacturing is not just not dead, but it’s desired by Americans.

• Ten years ago, my house burned to the ground. I was completely broke as hell, living in a camper. And today, I’m shaking hands with President Trump, Junior’s coming over and I pig hunted with Rogan. I get to be friends with heroes-our veterans.

• People need to keep moving the ball forward and never give up.

- montanaknifecompany

- https://www.montanaknifecompany.com/

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - GoodRX.com/TNQ 

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

Join us in this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast for an awe-inspiring conversation with James Lawrence, a man who turned his failures into a catalyst for extraordinary achievements. Known as the “Iron Cowboy”, James has set multiple world records in the world of triathlons and endurance sports. From barely finishing his first 5k at 28 to completing 50 full-distance triathlons in 50 states in 50 consecutive days, James's journey is a testament to the power of mental fortitude and relentless determination.

James didn’t grow up as an endurance athlete. At the age of 28, he struggled to finish his first 5k. However, this initial failure ignited a competitive spirit within him and a desire to achieve what seemed impossible.

James Lawrence’s story is a powerful reminder that our limitations are often self-imposed and that with determination and focus, we can achieve incredible feats. Whether you’re an athlete, a professional, or someone looking to push past personal barriers, James’s journey offers valuable insights and inspiration.

• My dad was a firefighter my entire life. He was out there serving and saving. (2:59)

• My life changed at the Calgary Stampede. I entered a contest to see who could ride the giant Ferris wheel for the entire 10 days of the stampede. I won the contest. (3:43)

• I’ve been a dreamer my entire life. (4:53)

• I’m really good at forgiving myself for mistakes that I’ve made in the past. (4:57)

• I don’t see things as good or bad in the ups and downs of life. I see them all as opportunities. (7:00)

• I could become “woe is me” and become a victim of the economy and the circumstances that was happening. I tried to fine the positive from it. (8:45)

• I think 1 door closes and 10 doors open. (10:22)

• When you do something and reach that mountaintop, your perspective changes on what’s possible because you’ve changed. (11:43)

• We broke the world record for the most Half Ironmans in a year. It was 22 Ironmans in 30 weeks. (12:44)

• In 2012 we did official, full-length Ironman races. We did 30 Ironmans in 11 countries in that year. (12:58)

• I’m just trying to find out what my limits are as a human. (14:12)

• I love setting new standards. (14:26)

• In 2015 after the second world record, we did 50 Ironmans in 50 days through all 50 states. (32:23)

• In 2021, we did 100 consecutive Ironmans – An Ironman a day for a quarter of a year, 14,000+ miles to raise money to eradicate sex trafficking. (32:48)

• What I’m most excited about is our new book: Iron Hope. (33:22)

• Constantly show up and pursue greatness for yourself. (38:06)

• Sometimes in life we’re gonna have to get up and do things when we don’t want to. (39:29)

- ironcowboyjames

- https://www.ironcowboy.com/

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

In this week’s episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie dive deep into the world of cyber security with our special guest, Kristofer Healey and his wife, Lacey. Kristofer is a seasoned expert in cyber security, fraud prevention, and risk management. With years of experience working at the intersection of technology and security, Kristofer brings a wealth of knowledge on how to protect yourself and your organization in the digital age.

Kristofer is an expert on telefraud whose criminal investigative work has been featured in national media profiles, most notably his work investigating India-based call center networks targeting American citizens. Listen in for some great stories about Kristofer’s journey in entrepreneurship and how you can protect yourself and your business.

Kristofer is also a sought-after speaker and consultant, providing strategic advice on preventing cyber-attacks and managing risk in an increasingly connected world.

• I worked for ICE down there [South Texas] for about 3 years, and I got picked up by the internal affairs group – Office of the Inspector General – around the time that the gulf cartel was going through a civil war. Cardenas gets extradited to the U.S. He started diming out every dirty Border Patrol Agent, every dirty CDP officer that he had paid money to. I got thrown right in the fire of going after all these dirty and corrupt Border Patrol officers and CDP officers. (6:59)

• I always tell my victims [of phone scams] is you’re gonna get a lot more justice than restitution. (17:07)

• They [phone scammers] get hung up on all the time, but it only takes one to make their week. (21:15)

• The 2 generations that fell victim the most were the 70+ (the boomers) and the younger folks that grew up on the internet. (27:32)

• These [phone scams] are incredibly smart schemes. (33:18)

• Once you do something insanely hard, everything else seems like something you can accomplish. (35:52)

• We indicted 61 people in 5 call centers in the U.S. and India. (42:25)

• She [One of the victims] lost 2 million dollars. She was 82 years old. A retired teacher. Lost every dollar she had. She lost everything. (58:45)

• The IRS scam was very effective, but because we took it down they don’t do that anymore. (63:05)

• For our seniors – people on Facebook in particular – stay off Marketplace. (70:50)

• When you introduce voluntary adversity throughout your life, you’ll always have a well of experiences you can draw from that are going to make you stronger when the adversity is involuntary. (92:09)

• We think we’re going the direction we need to be going in, and God reminds us you’re not in charge. (93:08)

• It’s not what happens to you. It’s how you react. (96:29)

• Life isn’t what happens. It’s what you do with what happens. (96:41) 

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - Robinhood.com

  - qualialife.com/TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Team Never Quit podcast. Today, we are honored to host Bill Wagasy, a decorated U.S. Navy SEAL veteran, former Notre Dame football player, and current VP of national sales for Commonwealth Land Title Company. Bill's journey from the gridiron to the battlefield and beyond is nothing short of extraordinary.

In college, Bill played as a reserve outside linebacker under Coach Lou Holtz, and harnessed the lasting influence of Coach Holtz’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Post-college, Bill pursued a law degree and a master’s in dispute resolution from Pepperdine University. However, driven by a deep sense of duty, Bill joined the Navy and became a Navy SEAL, completing four combat tours between 2002 and 2012—three in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. His specialties included lead sniper, lead breacher, JTAC, and lead navigator.

After his military career, Bill discusses the transition to civilian life and working with the Gary Sinise Foundation, and the importance of resilience, duty, and honor in his life and career.

We are deeply grateful to Bill Wagasy for sharing his powerful story. His unwavering dedication to service and the indomitable spirit he embodies serve as an inspiration to us all.

• The first time she [my sister] ever did Boston [marathon] was the year of the bombing. That was the first public event I ever went to when I got out of the SEAL teams. (16:08)

• I feel like a wonderful, all-American upbringing. (22:28)

• My coach [at Notre Dame] was coach [Lou] Holtz. (27:43)

• One of the greatest things I can say about him [Coach Lou Holtz] – He brought an intensity and a passion every single day for five years I was there. He never had an off day. (27:57)

• Do what’s right. It’s not right to find your teammate’s wallet before he loses it. (28:52)

• The way you show people you care – is if your part of a team, you have to put forth incredible effort and mental focus. Do your best in every single facet, from execution and preparation. (29:17)

• Every day, you’ve gotta bring it. (29:51)

• There’s nothing that anybody could’ve ever said to me when I was going through SEAL training that would have the effect of what Coach Holtz said to me. (32:42)

• There’s a huge jump between having a dream, and having the courage to follow it. (43:57)

• While we were in sniper school, that’s when Operation Red Wings went down. (69:20)

• When they found you [Marcus Luttrell] it was like a miracle, like no one could believe that you were alive. It was bittersweet because we lost everybody else. (81:46)

• Our fastest sniper rifle shoots about 3,000 feet per second, and an explosive goes somewhere around 12,000 to 25,000 feet per second. (95:02)

• I was in a vehicle rollover where I shattered my right wrist, and had a level 5 shoulder separation on my left side. I was in the hospital for ten days. (103:59)

• He (Gary Sinise) truly lived the example of “We can never do enough for our veterans, but we can always do a little bit more.” (131:10)

• If you were to ask me what 2 years I would never want to repeat again in my life, it’s the 2 years transitioning out of the military into the private sector and starting from scratch at 42 years old.

• I had 1 superpower in BUDS and that was taking cold water and just splattering everybody. (156:24)

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, where Marcus & Melanie Luttrell dive deep into the realms of leadership, courage, and strategic thinking with an extraordinary guest. Today, we are honored to have Stephen Kaplan, a retired Navy SEAL, keynote speaker, business consultant, and leadership expert. Stephen has dedicated over 20 years to mastering tactics, organizational leadership, strategic thinking, and professional team building. After his illustrious military career as a Navy SEAL, he has been transforming corporations, teams, and individuals through his insights and expertise.

Stephen shares his perspective on what it truly means to be courageous, emphasizing that being "fearless" is an illusion. True courage is about facing and conquering fears.

Steve's adventure business, Trident Adventures is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The company specializes in leadership and team-building experiences that offer an adventure of a lifetime. Learn how these adventures provide teams with a unique edge in leadership development.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills, build stronger teams, or simply get inspired by a story of transformation, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

TridentAdventures.com

LinkedIn: Stephen Kaplan

• After I Graduated High School, I went to Bible College to be a Pastor. I felt was that’s where I was supposed to be. That was calling on my life. (5:32)

• [Marcus] Q: What was the one thing in BUDS that got you?

A: I put a stick through my forearm on the obstacle course. (15:34)

• [On the obstacle course] my heart’s pumping like crazy. I’m excited.  I’m in BUDS. There’s 300 guys and I’m thinking I’m gonna be the guy that doesn’t quit, and I throw myself over the wall, and when I hop off the other end of it, I hear a snap. (17:06)

• The next obstacle was the high wall with the rope, so I go to grab it, and my hand doesn’t work. I look at my arm and there was a big stick sticking through. (17:28)

• I didn’t know how to swim when I signed up. (21:21)

• You’ll become a good swimmer at BUDS, for sure, but you won’t become a good runner at BUDS. You’ll get worse.  (22:34)

• I blew out my ear drum really bad.  They had to cut my ear off, and replace the membrane in my ear with a skin graft. (26:54)

• On the second day of hell week, I stepped in a hole in the sand and I hyperextended my knee and tore a bunch of stuff in my knee and ankle. Now I’ve got a bum leg, I’m in day 2 of hell week, and I had such a bad infection in my ear, that it actually rotted a hole in my   tympanic membrane. (28:20)

• I do not look like the type of person that should be lifting the type of weights I can lift. (50:55)

• [After having shortness of breath and chest pain for days, I was commanded to go to the ER] They do all the x-rays and all the blood tests, and the doctor says, “How long have you had these symptoms?” “5 days, I think.” “You’re supposed to be dead.” (55:47)

• I had to have 2 nurses hold me up, because if laid down, I’d pass out and die. My friends came by to say goodbye. I ended up not dying. (56:26)

• I was a SEAL tech advisor for Hawaii 5-O, Magnum PI and a couple of other shows. (58:44)

• We’re the only operation [Trident Adventures] – I think in the world – that’s allowed to have civilians jump out of a helicopter into the ocean or a body of water. (63:28)

• I used to love free diving, but I lost most of my lungs when I had the pulmonary embolism, so my breath hold now is embarrassing – maybe 30 seconds. (64:32)

• [Marcus] In SEAL teams, we will name something funny like Seal Transport Device (STD). 65:11)

• I choose to take my previous chapter of my life, and thru my entrepreneurship and my company and how I conduct myself. Through my integrity and my character I want to be that guy that makes people look at the teams in a higher regard because of how I carry myself. (73:33)

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

In this compelling episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with the incredible Evy Poumpouras, former Secret Service Agent, author, and expert in resilience and personal empowerment. Evy shares her journey from protecting presidents to empowering individuals to face their fears and build unshakeable resilience. She provides practical strategies for managing fear, handling stress, and cultivating a mindset that can thrive in any situation.

As a Secret Service Agent, Evy served under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton. She is the author of "Becoming Bulletproof: Protect Yourself, Read People, Influence Situations, and Live Fearlessly." She is a renowned speaker and media commentator, frequently appearing on networks like CNN, MSNBC, and NBC. Her expertise in body language, lie detection, and personal protection makes her a sought-after expert in the fields of security and resilience.

Evy’s actions as a first responder during the 9/11 terror attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City bestowed her the United States Secret Service Valor Award.

Book: Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras

Evy’s Website: evypoumpouras.com

Follow Evy on Social Media: Instagram, Twitter

   @evypoumpouras

 In this episode you will hear:

• I was born in Harlem, New York. My parents were immigrants – they’re Greek. (9:50)

• My dad’s first job in America – he worked for free. (12:04)

• [Growing up] Fun was when the fire department would open up the fire hydrants, and we’d run through them. That was “going to the pool.” (13:57)

• I’ve always trusted my [inner] voice – whatever it is – intuition, instinct. I would listen to it. (18:22)

• I’m brave if I’m in proximity of other brave people. (19:30)

• When I applied to the Secret Service and before that, NYPD, I never asked what am I getting paid? (22:55)

• Everything I was able to do, happened here, and there’s no question in my mind, had I been born in Greece – I say this with all humility, there’s no way I would’ve ever been a secret service agent, there’s no way I would’ve ever been a cop. (39:20)

• After 9/11, the tone changed significantly. [People became] very much supportive of first responders. (42:10)

• [In the 9-11 experience] there were no injuries that day. You either lived, or you died. (59:51)

• That was the saddest part, I thought “I’m gonna die all by myself here – completely alone.” (69:33)

• Those situations show you who people really are. Even training won’t reveal that, until you see who does what, and who’s capable of what. (80:25)

• [Marcus] The best comes out in everybody when we all get hit at the same time. (81:11)

• [Marcus} I think 9-11 recreated a different kind of America. (84:38)

• I never dealt with the victims, I dealt with the suspects and the perpetrators. (99:52)

 • I learned when I was an interviewer, certain countries torture certain ways. (110:04)

• I think our next big attack is gonna be a cyber-attack. (120:23)

Socials:

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary journey of Aaron Kendle, who dedicated 16 years to the Navy SEALs, completing six deployments. Kendle began his career as a medic, advanced to become a sniper, and eventually served as a sky-diving instructor for the West Coast SEALs in San Diego. Transitioning from military to civilian life, Kendle embraced a new mission as the CEO of the SEAL Future Fund (SFF), an organization devoted to helping fellow SEALs transition into civilian life and careers, with the creation of tailored resumes, professional coaching, and networking opportunities.

Despite a devastating accident that required hand amputation and the discovery and treatment of his life-threatening aortic aneurysm, Aaron proves firsthand that perspective, attitude and determination go a long way in life. Tune in to hear Aaron Kendle’s full story and gain valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of community in supporting life transitions.

• Q: So what was it that made you want to become a Navy SEAL?

A: I started thinking about it before I graduated. 9-11 is what shifted my path. (7:37)

• I still going to the VFW. I still love talking to those older guys. It’s a different mindset. (11:14)

• I heard my name going to Gold Team. As the classes get smaller and smaller, the guys get tighter. (44:33)

• We were living in Morgan’s house. Every Wednesday, if we were all together, we would go to Outback Steakhouse and get Chocolate Thunder. (50:48)

• Aaron speaks about “Extortion,” when 30 servicemen were killed when a Chinook helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan. (57:25)

• 2 days later when everything opened up, I remember calling my dad on a sat phone, saying “Hey, it’s me. I’m alive. I’d love to stay and chat, but there’s a bunch of stuff going on.” (61:59)

• The older guys that did 20-30 years. Those are the guys trying to figure out what’s the next step? (81:13)

• Aaron tells the most ridiculous and compelling story of an accident that resulted in having his hand amputated, and the subsequent hilarious events that followed. (82:12)

• “You have an Aortic aneurism. Your Aorta is way oversized.” (98:09)

During Covid I’m out there skateboarding. Made this turn, hit a wet patch, and landed directly on my nub. (103:35)

• I had a seizure. Out of nowhere. (104:18)

If I don’t have a goal for something, then I’m not doing anything. (109:16)

• Starting running is the worst feeling of all time. To stand there and then begin to run is terrible. (110:13)

• I think I owe it to people. 1 - I’m not dead. If I can go out there and suffer a little bit to help motivate people, and make ‘em better than I am, that’s our goal. (123:23) 

-  IG: redmanda252

- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - PXG.com/TNQ

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie bring you an incredible story that bridges the virtual and real worlds of racing. Join us as we dive into the fascinating journey of Jann Mardenborough, a British professional racing driver who went from playing sim racing video games to competing at the highest levels of motorsport.

Jann’s passion for racing ignited at a young age. Despite his father's professional soccer career, Jann dreamed of holding a steering wheel. Growing up in Cardiff, Wales, his potential was clear even at age 8 when he impressed a local go-kart track owner. However, financial constraints forced him to give up real-world racing, pushing him towards sim racing games like Gran Turismo.

The turning point came in 2011 when Jann entered the GT Academy, a hybrid gaming-driving competition by Nissan and Sony Computer Entertainment. Competing against 90,000 entrants, Jann’s exceptional skills in Gran Turismo 5 propelled him to the finals. His dedication saw him practicing up to five hours a day on a simulator rig complete with pedals and a steering wheel.

Jann's journey through the GT Academy was nothing short of extraordinary. Starting from virtual races, he proved his mettle on real tracks at Brands Hatch and Silverstone. His performance culminated in a winner-take-all race at Silverstone, securing him a professional racing contract with Nissan.

From winning the GT Academy, Jann quickly made a name for himself in the racing world. He has since finished on the podium in his class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, won races, and contended for titles in GT3 and junior formula cars. His career highlights also include competing in Super GT, Super Formula, and the FIA World Endurance Championship.

We’ll also touch on the Gran Turismo movie, which dramatizes the story of how a video gamer like Jann transitioned into a professional racing driver. This film highlights the transformative impact of the GT Academy and showcases the merging of virtual and real-world racing.

Jann’s story is a testament to how passion and dedication can turn dreams into reality, regardless of how unachievable they may seem. Tune in to hear more about his incredible journey from a bedroom gamer to a professional driver on some of the world's most prestigious tracks.

• My dad isn’t an academic person, but he really instilled in me and my younger brother – things about life. You have one life. He was paid to do something he loved. (6:07)

• When you’re 8 or 9 years old, you don’t really understand, but as you get older – what do I want to do? And my thing was racing. I didn’t know how I was going to do it. It was always instilled in my head – the understanding what the job was. I thought to myself “I want to do that. I don’t know how I’m going to get there, but I want to do that.” (6:26)

• It was through my friends – the love of cars, and the objects, and the pictures. I had them on my wall. (8:38)

• I was a kid that could recognize a car on the street in the dark just by the headlights as a 6 year-old. (9:50)

• With my dad, when I was younger, he never forced anything on me. (17:39)

• [Melanie] Q: Using the video game simulation, did you ever think that that was actually going to propel you into real racing?

A: No. Absolutely not. It wasn’t a conscious thought. My dream was always to be a racing driver, but I didn’t know how it would happen. (25:52)

• I used to go to work with the keys of my BMW which I had maybe 6 months. I would always go to work with the key in my pocket. That little BMW emblem on the key ring – I’d be rubbing it in my pocket, just thinking, “This isn’t it, what I’m doing, but I have at least something which was bringing me joy.” (26:53)

• Confidence and arrogance. People want to give you responsibility.  If you’re a bit soft with your answers – the first impressions are what really matter. (41:11)

• Every day in the academy, there was somebody getting eliminated. (41:41)

• I box things off in my head, once I learn about them, and I don’t revisit them. (50:49)

• [His car went airborne] A horrible point in my life. I remember it vividly. (51:34)

• [Melanie] As [Marcus’] wife, I see the parallel between the two of you. Both of you never quit. (52:46)

• My favorite championship race is the one in Japan. It’s called GT500. (64:51)

• In motorsports, even in Formula 1, you have 1 tire supplier. (65:25)

• Yes, there’s things I want to do in the sport. I want my own race team. (67:42)

• Be the best that you can be. (71:35)

  - Ligier Automotive

  - https://www.jannthaman.com/

  - IG: @jannthaman

  - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ

  - PXG.com/TNQ

  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]

  - Hims.com/TNQ

   - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Aura.com/TNQ

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com