In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Marcus dives into a fascinating discussion with our special guest, Chris Gothro. With an impressive 40 years of combined service, including 26 years in active military duty, Chris brings a wealth of experience and fascinating stories to the table.

Chris's journey began in the US Navy, where he served in various critical roles. With a focus on force continuity of operations and critical infrastructure protection, Chris operated under an active DOD Secret Clearance, highlighting the gravity of his responsibilities.

As a Logistics Management Specialist for the Naval Special Warfare Command, Chris navigated the intricate logistics web of one of the most elite branches of the military.

Rising through the ranks to become a Master Chief SEAL, Chris's expertise and leadership were instrumental in managing the undersea mobility program, a role that demanded precision and strategic planning.

Throughout the episode, Chris regales us with captivating tales from his time in service. From seemingly ridiculous operations to high-stakes missions, each story offers a glimpse into the dedication and ingenuity required in the world of military service.

As a Master Chief SEAL and logistics specialist, Chris delves into the intricacies of leadership and effective management, offering valuable lessons for leaders in any field.

Join us as we uncover the world of government service with Chris Gothro, a true testament to dedication, service, and the pursuit of excellence. His stories inspire and enlighten, offering a glimpse into a world few have the privilege to experience firsthand.

• The guys [SEALS] are smarter, more well prepared, built harder and ready to go from day one. (28:01)

• I did 40 years combined government service. I did 26 active duty.(30:28)

• Frog Men – if they’re smart – when they get into trouble and get caught. If you’ll say these mortal words – and the officers will laugh at this – “Well, XO, it seemed the logical thing to do at the time, but in retrospect I see the folly of my decision-making and I will stand accountable for my actions. (36:03)

• “Okay, you had your fuck up, prove it’s a hiccup and it’s not a habit, because if it’s a habit you’re gonna be very short lived in this community. (36:51)

• “I love being a team guy.” (40:21)

• [Melanie] Can you walk us through that bank robbery?” (54:24 – 56:40)

• [Marcus] We’re on this race track, and there’s 3 cars – side by side. We’d be driving down this track at full speed, and then they’ll be like: “You got shot – you’re out. And he would lean on the steering wheel while we’re racing and we’d have to pull him into the back seat. Meanwhile, the other guys are shooting us with paintballs. (60:35)

• Don’t be that guy that has the only information. Pass it on to everybody so everybody knows. (64:08)

• The combat swimmer – no bubbles. You don’t want to be seen. You don’t want to have bubbles come up. (66:49)

• His [Marcus’] Trident award was the last one awarded by the team. (70:28)

• [Marcus] “You’re not allowed to touch a Trident or go near one. (74:40)

• Chris’ involvement with Red Wing (84:44 – 99:00)

• I’ve got some good news, and bad news. Bad news is we’ve gotta tough job and there’s no way around it. You’re the junior guy and it gonna fall on you. The good news is you’re a perfect fit for it. (101:53) 

 

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

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

  - Navyfederal.org       

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - PXG.com/TNQ

  - Mackweldon.com {TNQ]

  - Robinhood.com

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

Join us for a deeply moving and inspirational Team Never Quit episode featuring Mason Sawyer, a resilient individual who has faced unimaginable tragedy with unwavering strength and purpose.

Mason's personal and professional life blossomed as he married his high school sweetheart, Kortni Atkinson, and embarked on a journey of education and coaching. After earning his college degree, Mason returned to his Alma Mater, West Jordan High School, as the head coach of the Varsity Basketball team while Kortni pursued her Nursing degree.

In the summer of 2021, Mason's life took a devastating turn when his family was involved in a fatal car accident in St. George, Utah. The accident claimed the lives of his brother, nephew, wife, and two of his children, leaving only his son Blue as a survivor. This unimaginable loss shattered Mason's world and altered the course of his life forever.

Despite his grief, Mason has devoted himself to raising his son, and honoring the memory of his loved ones. Inspired by the 10/90 Principle—believing that life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond—Mason has channeled his pain into a mission of helping others. He has launched a podcast, "The10ninety," and emerged as a compelling public speaker, sharing his message of resilience, hope, and the power of perspective.

Join us as Marcus and Mason discuss the journey of tragedy, resilience, and profound transformation, and discover how Mason continues to inspire others through his unwavering courage and commitment to living the 10/90 Principle.

 

  - 10ninetyrule

  - masonsawyer91

  - https://www.the10ninety.com/

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

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

  - Navyfederal.org

  - Moink.com/TNQ

  - Robinhood.com

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

 

• I’m very much in the thick of my grief still… (7:04)

• [My dad used to tell me] I have you, and your brothers and your sisters, and your mom. I have it all. That’s kinda what I had to shape my perspective. (10:54)

• The number one thing. That’s what makes someone rich is good quality relationships. (11:09)

• Being a good dad – That’s the number one, best, quickest way to make a difference in this world. (17:02)

• A big dust storm got kicked up, and it just covered the highway. It caused a 22 car pileup and it killed 8 people. And 5 of those 8 people was my family. (21:54)

• We were high school sweethearts. I never dated another girl. She was it. (31:15)

• You wake up, and you get your ass kicked today. You’re not gonna get any of ‘em back. You’re gonna lose, but you still fight on. It the best you can do. (38:23)

• That’s why I love the whole buffalo metaphor. The buffalos know they’re gonna get their ass kicked. But they get the good shit with the storm. The cows that run away from it get the snow or the rain or the shit part of the storm. But like if you embrace it, yeah you’re gonna get fucked up, I’m not saying you’re not gonna get hurt, but you’re also gonna get the benefits of it. (38:54)

• You’re never gonna get to those good parts, if you run away from the bad parts, ‘cause the bad and the good are located in the same spot. (39:52)

• If you’re running from the pain, you’re running from the growth. (40:02)

• [Marcus] Oh, by the way, you and I also got the death penalty. That’s the only way we check outta here. (41:28)

• [Marcus] You wake up, and you have a bad day or a hard day - -that’s gonna remind you how good your good ones are. (49:07)

• Your life – it doesn’t mean anything. It’s up to you to make it something. (56:47)

• That’s the point of life – handling shitty moments the best you can. (57:57)

• I learned that opportunity can come from the absolute worst thing. (60:25)

In this week's powerful episode, we are honored to have former Royal Marine Toby Gutteridge, an extraordinary individual who defied the odds after being paralyzed by a shot through the neck during a night raid in Afghanistan. Paralyzed instantly with a shattered C2 vertebrae, Toby's survival was miraculous. He details the harrowing moments, the support of his colleagues, and the grueling journey of rebuilding his life. Toby battled mental health issues, but his determination led him back to education, earning a first-class business degree at Bournemouth University.

Reflecting on the fragility of life, Toby expresses gratitude for his second chance and emphasizes the preciousness of every moment. Toby's resilience extends to entrepreneurship, as he founded an extreme sports clothing brand that echoes his optimistic outlook on life—finding light even in the darkest times.

Tune in to this episode to witness Toby Gutteridge's remarkable journey from the battlefield to rebuilding a life filled with purpose, determination, and a profound appreciation for the precious gift of life.

  - Bravery_UK

  - www.bravery.uk

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

  - Navyfederal.org

  - Robinhood.com

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

  - Moink.com/TNQ

 In this episode you will hear:

• When I left South Africa, I was so determined, come hell or high water, I was gonna get into the British Marines no matter what. (13:11)

• My determination was a lot higher than probably 80-85% of the recruits. (15:47)

• As a Royal Marine, it was a reality check. All of the sudden, the movies and all that goes out the window, and reality kicks in. (16:58)

• Where the Hilos landed, there was no cover, and they left us there. It was as flat as a pool table. We couldn’t go back; we couldn’t go left or right; so the only thing we could do was a full frontal assault on this compound.  [We] Just showed the enemy what we’re made of. (34:10)

• [As we broke through a door] They just opened fire on the first team that went through the entryway, and I happened to take a round through the neck that hit me square in the spinal cord, and that was me – lights out. (44:45)

• The next thing I remember was waking up probably about 3 months later. (46:36)

• [My recovery was] hell on earth, man. (46:47)

• You’re fighting for your survival, fighting for your life, using everything you’re got, just to not give in. (47:14)

• They couldn’t do an MRI because of the metal that was still stuck in my neck. (49:06)

• I spent 12 months on my back, staring at the roof. (57:28) 

• I’m not be the man to let the team down let the legacy of who we are down. I’m not gonna be that soldier. (58:57)

• I think my brothers in arms – the support I got from them – is what probably got me through it. (60:24)

• I just crossed a point where I decided I’m gonna make the best of it.  (60:59)

• It’s inspired the next generation of Special Forces Operators to go “Damn, look what these guys have done. Look at that legacy they left behind.“ (62:02)

• I lost all my physical capabilities, but I still have my mind. (63:31)

• I put all my energy, all my focus into education. (66:15)

• [Marcus] That SF attitude they put inside of us when we get in there is a game changer. (67:38)

• A big part of being in the SF world is being brave, and facing challenges. (70:45)

• Living life to the max. That positivity, spinning that into people – is what the brand is all about.)  (71:55)

• Live life to your fullest, because you never know when it’s gonna be taken away. (73:41)

Welcome to the Team Never Quit Podcast with your host, Marcus Luttrell. In this week's episode, we dive into the intricate world of the House of Representatives with our special guest, and Marcus’ twin brother, Morgan Luttrell, the dedicated representative from District 8. Join us as Morgan sheds light on the inner workings of the House, providing valuable insights into how laws and bills are crafted, the collaborative efforts involved, and the day-to-day functioning within the hallowed halls of Congress.

Ever wondered how things actually get done in the House of Representatives? Morgan provides a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies and negotiations that take place, offering an insider's perspective on the art of getting things done in the complex world of politics.

Learn about the various stages and committees involved in shaping legislation, and how representatives like Morgan play a crucial role in this intricate dance of democracy.

Morgan opens up about the challenges faced by representatives and the triumphant moments that make the journey worthwhile. Discover the highs and lows of navigating the political landscape and advocating for the needs and concerns of District 8.

Whether you're a political enthusiast or just curious about the inner workings of government, this episode is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the democratic process.

 

  - mojoluttrell

  - https://www.morganluttrell.com/

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

  - Navyfederal.org

  - Robinhood.com

  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Policygenius.com

  

• Everything I say is Morgan’s opinion. It’s Morgan’s perspective. (6:24)

• Candidate Morgan is different now because I have such a depth of what actually happens in the halls of congress. (7:21)

• You have to convince all the other members about what you think. (8:58)

• I’ve had conversations where the individual on the other side of the table is like “I don’t want a border. I don’t care about laws on the border. Anybody that wants to come across and plant a flag has the right to do so.” Those conversations happen. (10:16)

• It’s not Morgan representing the entire country. It’s Morgan representing District 8. (13:10)

We create appropriations bills, and appropriations bills fund the government. (14:31)

• I’m doing every single day – as hard as I can – to move laws in order to protect the people of Texas. (32:53)

• We have a spending problem. The process itself works, if you realize you can’t spend more than you have. (33:58)

• Learning to be a congressional member. You have to understand your role. (57:26) 

• It can get interesting on the committees. (61:16)

• I tried never to get hit in my blind spot. I tell my staff: “Don’t ever let me get caught off guard. I don’t want to embarrass the district.” (61:30)

• I want House Resolution 2, the Border Bill to come across from the senate. And I want this to be signed by the President, so we can enforce it. That’s primary goal #1. (65:22)

• [Melanie] Q: How long do you see yourself as a congressman? [Morgan] A: 3 terms. (66:17)

• They chose me, and I’m doing my absolute best to widen the road that those went before me paved. (68:25)

• After I leave - if somebody was to say anything about me, the response that I’d be honored to hear would be “I wish he was still here.” (70:12)

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Eric Blehm, an acclaimed author whose storytelling prowess has carved a niche in the realms of adventure, courage, and the human spirit. With a track record that boasts New York Times bestsellers and accolades like the National Outdoor Book Award, Blehm's narrative skills have captivated readers across the globe.

A groundbreaking moment in his journalistic career was in 1999 when he became the first journalist to accompany and keep pace with an elite Army Ranger platoon, setting a milestone in American war journalism.

His immersion with the Special Operations community led to gripping accounts, including the story of eleven Green Berets who changed the course of history in Taliban-held southern Afghanistan just weeks after 9/11 (The Only Thing Worth Dying For).

Fearless and Beyond delves into the inspiring story of Naval Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Adam Brown, showcasing resilience in the face of addiction and devastating injuries.

Eric's storytelling prowess extends to Legend, an account of the U.S. Army’s 240th Assault Helicopter Company and Green Beret Medal of Honor recipient Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez.

In his latest work, The Darkest White, Blehm returns to his mountain roots to recount the life of snowboarding’s original superstar, Craig Kelly. The book explores Kelly's journey from being the sport’s first true professional to his tragic end in the powdery backcountry that initially drew him to his calling.

Both Fearless and Legend are currently in the process of being adapted for film by major Hollywood producers and studios, attesting to the cinematic appeal of Blehm's storytelling.

Join us for an episode filled with riveting tales of courage, adventure, and the human spirit as Eric Blehm takes us behind the scenes of his extraordinary storytelling career.

  - ericblehmofficial

  - https://www.ericblehm.com/ 

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

  - Navyfederal.org

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

  - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

• I want to not only hook a reader with something interesting, but I want to give them a reason to finish the book. (7:15)

• I always try to get some sort of a cliffhanger, something early on that will keep someone reading. (7:20)

• If someone comes back and asks me where this sentence came from, or where this quote from, • I want to have an answer. (9:18)

• I would rather have a hole in my story than fill it with bullshit. (9:46)

• Some stories that are very true cannot be told true, because certain people don’t want shit told. (11:01)

• At some point in your life, you’re taken away by a story.  (12:24)

• I wanted to be a pro snow boarder in the 80s. (13:26)

• I do not even know the whole story of how Lone Survivor came together. (23:44)

• [Marcus] When it was time to do the movie, I got to live with [Director] Peter Berg. (26:41)

• I was chatting with one of [Ted Nugent’s] bandmates. [I asked] Is it true that he will only shoot something he eats? And he said “It is absolutely true. Sometimes I wish he’d shoot a salad.” (34:57)

• To die a hero [Adam Brown] with all those skeletons buried. (37:29)

• People often ask if there’s a common thread to all these special ops or operators, and it seems to me that everybody has overcome something already. Someone once said: “Children of Adversity.” (37:40)

• A woman will change a man’s religion and his politics. (39:58)

• There’s 2 heroes in Fearless: Kelly Brown and Adam Brown. (41:13)

• [Melanie] Now you get the Trident when you graduate BUDS. (44:05)

• There’s a certain personality that the SEALs have. They are people people. It’s very much a mental game. (48:26)

• There’s always a choice between making something “Wacky Hollywood” vs “This is what really happened.” (52:04)

• Roy Benavidez was a real badass. He’s the one person I’d want beside me if I was surrounded by the enemy and running out of ammo. (53:04)

• You {Marcus] are a household name, and people look to you as someone who stands for America. (95:39)

Welcome, friends to this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast with your host, Marcus Luttrell. In today's episode, Marcus has the honor of hosting a true hero and inspiring individual, Jeff Gum. Jeff is not only a former US Navy SEAL with two deployments to the Middle East but also the founder of Sunga Life, a swimwear and athleisure brand that goes beyond fashion to support causes close to his heart.

Jeff takes us on a riveting journey from his ten years as a US Navy SEAL to his entrepreneurial venture with Sunga Life. Hear about the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way.

As a board member of the Adaptive Training Foundation, Jeff sheds light on the incredible work being done to empower amputee and spinal cord injury veterans and civilians. Discover how these individuals undergo training and embark on transformative experiences through mountain and ocean therapy.

Jeff shares a personal story of resilience during SEAL training, where he faced significant health challenges but persisted, ultimately graduating with a group of elite SEALs. Learn how the mindset of never quitting has shaped his approach to business and life.

Explore the evolution of Sunga Life from its roots in the Brazilian Sunga to a comprehensive lifestyle brand. Jeff discusses the brand's expansion into 4-way stretch board shorts, silkies, and shirts, and how it has become a symbol of freedom and confidence.

Jeff's commitment to supporting veterans extends beyond his business. Dive into his involvement in epic charity challenges like the Hudson SEAL Swim and his role as a scientific master diver with the Force Blue Team, where former special operators work alongside scientists for ocean conservation.

Jeff passionately addresses the lack of support for veterans post-service, emphasizing the importance of community and a sense of purpose. He discusses the factors contributing to veteran suicides and advocates for governmental planning to keep skilled individuals engaged and active.

Jeff leaves us with words of wisdom inspired by Joseph Campbell's philosophy: "Follow your bliss, and doors will open." Learn how being true to oneself and pursuing what makes your heart glow can lead to positive change, both personally and in the world.

Thank you for joining us on this powerful episode with Jeff Gum. Be sure to check out Sunga Life and the incredible veteran foundations he supports. Remember, being your own person and creating positive change starts with embracing your uniqueness. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, and leave a review. Until next time, be the light in the darkness and inspire others on their journey.

  - jeffgum , sunga.life , pewuniversity

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

  - MoinkBox.com/TNQ

  - Policygenius.com

  - Navyfederal.org

  - usejoymode.com/TNQ

 In this episode you will hear:

• [In BUDS] I’d always make the decision: “I’m not coming up for air until the task is done. (3:25)

• I can’t just go and have a normal job. I need the biggest challenge in order to be fulfilled. What’s the hardest thing I could do? And I became obsessed with hell week. I almost wanted to do hell week more than be a SEAL (16:55)

• I told everyone I wanted to be a SEAL, and then, a year and a half later, 9-11 happened and it just reaffirmed it 100-fold. I don’t want to go be a Navy SEAL to do hell week, and learn how to skydive and scuba dive, and blow stuff up and shoot guns, all these really bad-ass things. I wanted to do it to hunt the most evil people in the word, and make sure 9-11 never happens again. (17:33)

• I will never, ever quit. (34:43)

• [Kyle Maynard –has no arms or legs - and I] start talking. We become friends. We start hanging out a lot. I start bringing him in to speak to my students and motivate them. We traveled around the world together. I took him diving at the Great Barrier Reef, climbed the highest mountain in Australia and went to 20-plus countries with him. (70:07)

• I was having major [back] issues. Even trying to do basic workouts it would pop and go out on me. I went to Columbia to the bio accelerator, and they did stem cells in my spine. I’m like a new person after that. (74:40)

• I swam Alcatraz, and swam it in one of my Sungas. That was the coldest swim I’ve done. (94:55)

• I’m a board member for the Adaptive Training Foundation in Dallas, helping with athletes. After 9 weeks of training - spiritual, mental, physical. Literally, they perform miracles there. 

They’ve been 20-30 years and haven’t walked, and at the end of 9 weeks they’re walking. (97:06)

• I never felt so much love and gratitude for everyone who’s been in my life. Of all the people I could’ve been born to and I was born to my mom. All the siblings I could’ve had, and I had my sister and my brother. It was hard to think of my dad and brother without being sad because I miss them so much, but it made be so unbelievably grateful for the time I had with them. (102:10) 

Welcome back, faithful listeners, to another exciting episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast with your host, retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell. Today, we have a truly inspiring guest joining us - Sherri Reuland, a remarkable individual making a significant impact in various fields. From her work as an Orthodontist to her involvement in charitable efforts like the Boot Campaign, a non-profit organization supporting military veterans and their families. Learn more about the incredible initiatives of the Boot Campaign and how Sherri contributes to making a difference in the lives of those who served.

Sherri is also the author of the JIC (Just in Case) book. Tune in as she discusses the inspiration behind the book, its purpose, and the valuable lessons it imparts. The book is not only a guide for emergency preparedness but also a testament to Sherri's commitment to helping others lead safer, more secure lives.

Sherri's diverse interests also extend to the world of film, where she is involved in an exciting project promoting the benefits of Ibogaine. Learn about her investment in this promotional film and how she sees it as a platform to raise awareness about the potential therapeutic uses of Ibogaine.

Don't miss this insightful conversation with Sherri Reuland, and be prepared to be motivated to make a difference in your own unique way! Subscribe, share, and join us next time for another engaging episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast.

  - silverpickranch_

  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13

  - https://www.navyfederal.org/

  - shhtape.com [TNQ]

  - Robinhood.com/boost

  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]

 In this episode you will hear:

• We wanted to use our collective skillsets to find a way NOT to start a charity or to raise money, but to start a movement - a campaign about putting yourself in their [veterans’] shoes. Empathy – how do we connect with this community we don’t know a lot about. (15:29)

• Our goal was to exploit them [our veterans] in the benefit of the military. (24:24)

• A lot of the executive functions of my family fall on my shoulders, and I thought “I’ve got to write so much down, [thus the JIC Book was created] because if something happens to me my family is gonna be very, very lost.”

• My son has a lot of the entrepreneurial spirit. (57:05)

• I bought the land and a car wash; invested a little bit in new equipment, and then turned my son and three of his friends loose on it. They had to understand customer service, and how to be polite, and they did it flawlessly. They learned how to grow up. (57:44)

• I think that we are facing a mental health crisis. Then I see this Ibogaine - It has applications to treat a very large spectrum of symptomology. (62:57)

• I’m investing in a film that’s gonna tell the story about the beginnings of Ibogaine. (64:04)

• My role in this is to bring awareness to some of what the research is showing. And to get it known and seen by people who can make a big difference. (69:09)

• [Marcus] It gets to the root of what’s bothering you - Not all those layers you’ve put in there, or that other people put in there, or that life’s put in there. (70:46)

• [It’s] absolutely the best thing that ever happened to me. (71:27)

Join us for this week’s exhilarating episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast as Marcus sits down with Randy Beausoleil, a true American hero and former Navy SEAL of 34 years. In this gripping conversation, Randy shares insights from his remarkable mission to Panama, where his mission was to take down dictator and drug lord, Manuel Noriega, by blowing up his boat. Listening to Randy’s compelling, firsthand story offers a glimpse into the mindset that defines a warrior.

Discover the principles of teamwork, adaptability, unwavering determination, and the mental toughness required to navigate high-stakes situations.

Listening to Randy reveals insights into the discipline, focus, and resilience that set Navy SEALs apart, and be inspired by how these principles can be applied to everyday challenges.

Unleash Your Inner Warrior: Tap into your own inner warrior spirit. Whether you're facing personal challenges or striving for self-improvement, Randy's insights provide a roadmap for unlocking your full potential.

 

Sponsors:

  - Fitbod.me/TNQ

  - Takelean.com/TNQ

  - Navyfederal.org

  - Hims.com/TNQ

Follow us!

  - https://linktr.ee/TeamNeverQuit

• You’re gonna make it no matter what happens. You just have to believe. And the Navy doesn’t train that into you. (12:45)

• In order to make it through BUDS, you gotta believe you can do it. (13:32)

• People quit when they don’t believe. (15:48)

• The work is being miserable, cold, wet, tired. You still have to perform. (18:37)

• Hell week is what separates us from the rest of them [other Special Forces]. It gives you a weird mental ability that no other training can give you. (19:50)

• Everybody compares themselves to SEALS. SEALS don’t compare themselves to anybody else. (20:35)

• We have to train so hard that no matter what we do, we’re way better at it than anyone else. (23:59)

• When we do actually go into combat, combat is easier than the training. 24:09)

• My desire was for their best interest [as an instructor]. We’re gonna train hard, but we’re gonna stick together. You need to know why you’re doing what you’re doing. (29:46)

• You need to be training everybody that is below you to replace you. (34:59)

• As the leader, I’ll help who needs help. (37:29)

• I don’t want to talk specific tactics because there’s still guys on active duty deploying those tactics. I don’t want the enemy to hear it. (50:22)

• [Marcus] If you close your eyes and drop underwater, you know how many kicks it takes to get 100 yards. (51:46)

• Okay, this is why we’ve been doing what we’re doing. We’re getting on the C141, and that night, we’re getting in the water and we are diving on these boats. (67:05)

• If something happens, it’s my fault. If we didn’t get there, it’s my fault. If we got compromised, it’s my fault. I’m not gonna sit there going “it’s his fault.” (77:00)

• Once we go in the water, it over, that boat is blowing up. (79:46)

• There has to be a level of finality to whatever you’re doing. If I don’t do this correctly, things aren’t gonna work out so well. (130:37)

Welcome back, loyal listeners to another episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast!  Join us as Marcus and Melanie sit down for a conversation with wounded warrior and U.S. Navy SEAL, Joey Hahn.

Having lost his mother at 4 years of age to cervical cancer, his father was unable to care for him and his two siblings, and they were placed in foster care where they lived in dozens of homes across Texas until he graduated high school.

Despite the turmoil in his life, Joe graduated third in his high school class, earning multiple scholarships to attend Texas A&M University to pursue a Biomedical Science Degree. Joe was attending college when the 9/11 attacks occurred. He enlisted and spent 13 years in the United States Navy as a Special Operator First Class (SEAL). He deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and he then deployed three more times to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and to other undisclosed locations worldwide.

 During two separate freefall workups for specific missions and deployments, Joey was catastrophically injured, shattering his left and right legs individually. Each injury required several surgeries and months of recovery time before he was able to return to his unit. After two more deployments, the extent of his injuries was discovered, requiring more surgeries. Unable to fully recover and having sustained several TBI’s from explosions and IED’s while overseas, Joseph Hahn was medically retired in 2017.

 Joey currently subcontracts with various entities conducting training, personal security, and consulting while continuing to pursue his degree.

Tune in and be inspired. Until next time, NEVER QUIT!

Sponsors:

  - Navyfederal.org

  - Hellofresh.com/TNQFREE

  - Fitbod.me/TNQ

  - Shopify.com/TNQ

  - Robinhood.com

  - https://www.instagram.com/team_neverquit/

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

• I can remember the day I got picked up [by CPS Foster Care]. I was in Kindergarten. (9:20)

• The foster home that took me in was my baseball coach. (18:02)

• I was constantly the new kid. My average stay at a home was 6 months. (20:38)

• The whole image of 9-11 and the invasion of Iraq was all over the TV. Stuff like that ate at me, especially being young, able-bodied, male Texan. I kept thinking to myself I need to do something now if I’m gonna do it because I’m physically capable now. (26:36)

• What attracted me to the whole community was combat diving. I loved water growing up. You couldn’t keep me out of a body of water: lake, pond, tank, trough. I was always trying to find a way to get wet. (32:02)

• Growing up as a child, I didn’t have any connections to anybody. I rarely saw my actual brother. There was no consistency as far as people in my life until the very end of my foster kid career. (73:51)

• I never really bonded with anybody until I went to BUDS. I can tell you everybody I went to BUDS with. They made a lifelong imprint on my life. (74:15)

• The only way to survive this situation [in battle] is to be with your brothers, and be ready for it, but accept that death is a possibility. (76:15)

• Instructors were telling us, “You’ve gotta be prepared to shoot somebody in the face. If you’re not mentally prepared for that, you’re in the wrong line of work. (78:28)

Welcome to another impactful episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast. In today's episode, we shine a spotlight on the crucial importance of seatbelt safety, exploring the heart-wrenching story of David Mills and his family. Their tragedy led to the creation of the Kailee Mills Foundation, a beacon of hope and advocacy for seatbelt awareness.

The Mills family's tragic journey begins with the heartbreaking story of losing their beloved 16-year-old daughter in a car accident. This devastating event became the catalyst for change in their lives and ignited a passion for preventing similar tragedies, in memory of their daughter. Through educational programs, events, and collaborations, the foundation continues to make strides in promoting seatbelt safety and saving lives.

We discuss tangible ways our listeners can contribute to the Kailee Mills Foundation's mission and promote seatbelt safety within their own communities.

Join us as we honor the memory of Kailee Mills and support the Kailee Mills Foundation in their tireless efforts to make our roads safer.

Check out the foundation here:

- https://www.kaileemillsfoundation.org/

 - Navyfederal.org

 - Policygenius.com

 In this episode you will hear:

• The whole Team Never Quit mindset started for me when we lost our daughter. Our 16 year old. It was at that point that I realized how short life is. (14:31)

• A lot of my friends that were way less smart than me, weren’t as hard of workers as me, were doing way bigger things. I was like why can’t that be me?   That’s when I why decided to grow my company and things really took off.  At the same time, we were building a foundation in our daughter’s name. (14:48)

• Even from a young age she [Kailee] could talk to anybody. She was like an adult, she would go into a room and make her presence felt. She was outgoing, bubbly, a light in a dark room. She had a large personality, a big smile, a loud laugh, and was larger than life. (19:26)

• She also didn’t mind being the butt of a joke. (21:40)

• It’s a parent’s worst fear – losing a child. (28:17)

• Your odds [of survival in a crash] go up exponentially if you have your seatbelt on. (33:34)

• I’ve never been comfortable with public speaking but I just felt like these kids [gathered at the crash site days later] needed to hear a message of how important it is to be safe in the car. (34:51)

• I told ‘em you’ve gotta be selfish when it comes to your safety. (35:36)

• Who do you buckle for at home that loves you that’s counting on you to make it home safe? (41:45)

• I’ve done way worse, and got away with it. (63:14)

• I’m shaving getting ready for the memorial service and I’m thinking to myself of all those stupid choices I’ve made and got away with, and I thought it’s not fair. I’m a Christian. What is the foundation of my faith? It’s the Lord’s Prayer - Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. (63:28)

• I called him [the driver’s father] and said I want you to know that I forgive your son. I want him to know that If he wants to come pay his respects, say his goodbye’s We’re gonna welcome him with open arms. We’re gonna love on him. We’re gonna tell him it’s gonna be okay. We forgive him. (64:17)

• If there’s somebody in your life that you’re holding hatred or a grudge on, just consider forgiving that person. (64:45)

• Raising awareness is about creating conversations and reminding people what’s important. (72:12)