Team Never Quit Marcus Luttrell

From Video Gamer to Professional Driver with Jann Mardenborough
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.

In this episode you will hear:
• 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 fir

Exploring Mental Health Through Visual Storytelling with Brandon Kapelow
This week on the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie speak with Brandon Kapelow, a versatile visual artist hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Wyoming. With a diverse portfolio encompassing directing, photography, and cinematography, Brandon's creative journey is as dynamic as the landscapes he captures.
But there's more to Brandon's story than meets the eye. At an early age, he endured the tragic loss of his dad to suicide, an experience that profoundly shaped his artistic endeavors and personal mission. Now, as a survivor and advocate, Brandon channels his passion into exploring themes of mental health through his work.
Brandon delves into the complexities of mental health with a keen eye and compassionate heart. Beyond academia, he extends his support to those affected by suicide loss as a peer-support group facilitator.
Join us as we traverse the intersections of art, resilience, and healing with Brandon Kapelow. From the rugged landscapes of Wyoming to the bustling streets of LA and Vancouver, Brandon's nomadic lifestyle mirrors his insatiable curiosity for the human experience.

In this episode you will hear:
• I struggle with a succinct way to categorize what I do, because I really try my best to be a chameleon at times. (4:45)
• So you’re having these dramatic swings between one extreme and the other. On one end of that spectrum you have like the depressive, down quality, and the opposite side you have mania – hyperactivity, lots of energy, feeling like you’re king of the world. (7:44)
• I was a bit of a nerd in high school. I was in the speech and debate team. (9:18)
• Words do matter. (19:32)
• Even the word “triggering” is something that we try to avoid using now, because that evokes imagery of a specific thing that might be upsetting to certain people. (23:44)
• If each of us can encourage one other person to model slightly better behavior, then we’re gonna live in a better world. (25:07)
• People really don’t take unsolicited advice. (28:19)
• If you’re concerned about somebody, really just be direct with them and let them know that you are concerned, particularly with suicide. (31:31)
• The one thing that you can access anywhere in this country is the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Call 9-8-8. (34:50)
• If you know a person who has access to something that they can use to kill themselves, work with them to try to remove access to whatever that might be. (37:10)
• [Marcus] When you into a situation, don’t let the situation affect you. You go in there to affect the situation. (42:02)
• We have to separate people’s external circumstances from their feeling of worth, purpose, and meaning in life. (46:58)
• I work with a lot of veterans, because they are a particularly at risk group for suicide and other mental health challenges. (48:33)
• Vulnerability is a source of strength. (59:44)
• [Melanie] When I was introduced to psychedelic medicine, and I saw how it was helping so many people, I couldn’t keep my blinders on. I started to do research and seeing how it was changing lives. (66:56)
• It’s one thing to have a self-guided experience. It’s another thing to have a mental health professional there with you while you’re undergoing this experience to really maximize the benefits. (72:08)

Socials:
  - https://youtu.be/VqdWscD-STk?si=IWIYw6TC9ggnVQC_
  - https://www.brandonkapelow.com/
  - IG: bkapelow
 -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
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  - usejoymode

In this week's episode, Marcus and Melanie are honored to host April Cheek-Messier, a key figure in preserving the legacy and lessons of one of the most pivotal moments in history: D-Day.
April is the President of the National D-Day Memorial Foundation, an organization dedicated to upholding the memory of the Allied Forces' valor, fidelity, and sacrifice on June 6, 1944. As the President of the Foundation, she plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity and security of the National D-Day Memorial while advancing its educational mission.
During our conversation, April sheds light on the Foundation's multifaceted approach to fulfilling its mission. We delve into how the Foundation maintains and operates the National D-Day Memorial, providing a solemn and educational space for visitors to honor and learn about the events of D-Day.
Through various programs, projects, and exhibitions, the Foundation strives to cultivate an appreciation for the historical and residual significance of D-Day.
Join Marcus and Melanie us as we gain insights into the tireless work of April Cheek-Messier and the National D-Day Memorial Foundation in preserving the legacy of D-Day and ensuring that future generations understand the profound impact of this historic event.

In this episode you will hear:
• I grew up in Bedford, Virginia, which was a community impacted heavily by World War II. (3:50)
• Bedford sustained the highest per capita loss on D-Day.  (4:28)
• 16 million served in World War II, and we have less than 1% living today. (7:32)
• Like so many veterans, they didn’t talk about it. They tried to forget about it. (10:47)
• It became [Bob Slaughter’s] goal to make sure there was something to commemorate those who gave their life on D-Day. (11:48)
• In 1996, congress decided there should be a National D-Day Memorial. (12:45)
• We are not federally funded. It was a grass roots efforts by veterans. (13:03)
• What joy it brought Bob Slaughter and his veteran friends to know that they did it. (13:46)
• Over 400,000 families during World War II lost a loved one. (17:16)
• There were 3 sets of brothers who served on D-Day. (18:41)
• It’s when you’re able to tell the individual stories that young people can understand the tragedy of war and what was accomplished that day was so very critical. (24:29)
• Believe it or not, there was nowhere – not even in Normandy - a list of who died on June 6, 1944. (25:21)
• The more we can work together to make sure these stories are told is incredibly important. (32:23)
• D-Day was critical. It was going to be the turning point of the war in Western Europe. It was Operation Overlord, which was to invade German-occupied France. (33:25)
• The consequences were dire. This had to happen. They had to succeed. (35:56)
• 5,000 ships, 11,000 aircraft, just on D-Day alone. 160,000 troops and over 150,000 landing on June 6th alone. (36:50)

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org       
  - Shopify.com/TNQ
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  - Moink.com/TNQ
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  - Robinhood.com
  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]
  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]
  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]
  - Policygenius.com

Chris Caracci – Part 2 – From SEAL Team Six to Law Enforcement: A Journey of Tactical Mastery
This week, the Team Never Quit Podcast brings you Part 2 of Marcus and Melanie’s discussion with Chris Caracci, a distinguished figure with over two decades of combined military and law enforcement experience. Chris's journey from serving with SEAL Team One and Team Six to becoming a leading authority in practical and tactical techniques is both inspiring and enlightening.
Chris’s illustrious career began with a six-year commitment in the U.S. Navy, where he served with unparalleled distinction in SEAL Team One and Team Six, specializing in anti-terrorism operations. Transitioning from his military service, Chris spent nine years as a sworn tactical officer, operating in diverse environments across New York, New Jersey, and South Florida. His expertise in SWAT operations and narcotics enforcement earned him recognition as a top-tier operative and trainer, sought after by both local and federal agencies.
Chris shares compelling accounts of Medal of Honor recipients going back to the Vietnam War.
Today, Chris's dedication to personal protection and private training keeps him at the forefront of the field, where maintaining peak physical and mental conditioning is paramount. With a profound understanding of real-life conflicts, Chris brings a unique perspective to his classes, teaching from both the heart and the mind.
Gain insights into Chris's firsthand experiences with real-life conflicts and the strategies needed to navigate them successfully.
Don't miss this week’s Part 2 episode as we delve into more details of Chris Caracci’s military and law enforcement service - a true master of tactical expertise.

 In this episode you will hear:
• [Marcus] I remember being in hell week, around the world, rowing that boat. I looked over at the guys in my boat and I said, “Hey guys, we’re in the books, we’re in the movies right now.
• The things that I read about in the books is what we were doing. {16:36)
• If I can’t see my target I’m not shooting. I don’t shoot to make noise. (34:20)
• [Marcus] Imagine if a football play lasted until you actually scored a touchdown – without stopping. It’s kinda what it’s like for us. (47:48)
• Sometimes, you have to face the truth that what we do and how we do it. We CAN do it and not everybody can do it. (58:30)
• SEAL Teams have never left anyone behind – ever. (74:43)
• We had three Medal of Honors that went out in Vietnam. (84:54)
• For a SEAL to be awarded and it’s not about medal, we’re talking about a validation for something they did. It’s very hard for frogmen to get that because every day are those kinds of missions. (84:00)
• Just training. SEAL Teams kill more people in peacetime than anyone has a clue about. (89:59)

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org       
  - Shopify.com/TNQ
  - Mackweldon.com [TNQ]
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  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]
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  - Robinhood.com
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  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]
  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]
  - Policygenius.com

Chris Caracci - From SEAL Team Six to Law Enforcement: A Journey of Tactical Mastery
In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Markus and Melanie are honored to host Chris Caracci, a distinguished figure with over two decades of combined military and law enforcement experience. Chris's journey from serving with SEAL Team One and Team Six to becoming a leading authority in practical and tactical techniques is both inspiring and enlightening.
Chris’s illustrious career began with a six-year commitment in the U.S. Navy, where he served with unparalleled distinction in SEAL Team One and Team Six, specializing in anti-terrorism operations. Transitioning from his military service, Chris spent nine years as a sworn tactical officer, operating in diverse environments across New York, New Jersey, and South Florida. His expertise in SWAT operations and narcotics enforcement earned him recognition as a top-tier operative and trainer, sought after by both local and federal agencies.
Chris shares compelling accounts of Medal of Honor recipients going back to the Vietnam War.
Today, Chris's dedication to personal protection and private training keeps him at the forefront of the field, where maintaining peak physical and mental conditioning is paramount. With a profound understanding of real-life conflicts, Chris brings a unique perspective to his classes, teaching from both the heart and the mind.
Gain insights into Chris's firsthand experiences with real-life conflicts and the strategies needed to navigate them successfully.
Don't miss this compelling episode as we delve into the details of Chris Caracci’s military and law enforcement service - a true master of tactical expertise.

In this episode you will hear:
• Marines are unique people. (7:53)
• I was only really good at climbing, and I was always climbing buildings. (12:52)
• I just happened to close a door and looked behind it, and what do I see? I see these twin 72 cubic inch scuba tanks. I grabbed ‘em and they were [made of] Styrofoam! (28:34)
• If I ever come up with something like Dementia, I hope I’m brave enough to identify it and go for a long swim. (35:21)
• In battle you learn one thing. [You need] water, and ammunition. (36:45)
• When you hit the water, you only got a matter of minutes, and if that parachute gets saturated, it’s an anchor. You’re going down. End of story. (38:26)
• If you never quit, you’ll never know how to. (39:37)
• [Marcus] The only reason I knew I could make it, it because I made it through hell week. (40:47)
• The reason they don’t give us – in my day – more psychological techniques, and even some physiological tricks – they wanna see who’s gonna do it on their own. (45:48)
• Free fall is difficult because there’s no gravity. (49:39)
• You still did one thing together – you get up in line and you examine each other’s equipment to make sure the guys are squared away and nothing bad’s gonna happen. (57:42)
• One of the reasons I was really driven to be a frog man was because they weren’t designed for any other purpose other than warfare. (60:59)
• There were so many cold war frogmen that were ready. There was no war but we were ready. (70:40)
• One of the first things I learned is that it wasn’t about muscle, it wasn’t about brawn – it was about the mind. (83:24)
• You can’t change the world. You have to learn how to navigate accordingly. (93:41)
• Where is there a war I can get in? Where can I stand up for somebody and fight but for a reason, for a purpose. (96:01)
• Life may be boring to me, but what makes life is being able to share it with someone special. (99:23)

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org       
  - Aura.com/TNQ
  - Moink.com/TNQ
  - PXG.com/TNQ
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  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Robinhood.com
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  - Shopify.com/TNQ
  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]
  - Policygenius.com

Surviving the Unthinkable: A Law Enforcement Officer's Story of Courage and Recovery
In this week's Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie meet with Julie Werhnyak, a former Tempe, Arizona police officer whose life changed forever on March 3, 2015. Julie shares her harrowing experience, the split-second decisions she had to make, and how she drew upon her training and resilience to survive being stabbed in the neck.
Julie had a routine before starting her shift. But on that fateful Tuesday morning, she sensed something was amiss. A premonition led her to alter her routine and mentally prepare for what lay ahead.
Responding to a call for a welfare check, Julie and a colleague encountered a situation that quickly escalated.
As they attempted to gain entry to the residence, Julie's worst fears were realized. A violent suspect emerged, armed and dangerous. In a split-second decision, Julie confronted the assailant, risking her life to protect others.
Julie's bravery came at a cost. She sustained severe injuries during the confrontation, but her training and resolve kept her focused on survival. With the support of her colleagues and medical personnel, Julie began her journey towards recovery.
Despite the physical and emotional toll of her ordeal, Julie returned to duty, driven by a sense of duty and resilience. However, the challenges didn't end there. Julie reflects on the importance of proper psychological support for law enforcement officers facing trauma.
After two decades of service, Julie recently retired from the force. With her company, Artemis Self-Defense, Julie continues to empower others through tactical and self-defense education. Her story serves as a testament to the power of training, resilience, and community support.
Julie Werhnyak's journey is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the strength it takes to overcome adversity.

In this episode you will hear:
• My best never quit story would’ve been during my martial arts training and because of those never quit moments, that’s how I was able to survive the stabbing that I incurred. (5:50)
• Every day I put on my Tempe Police uniform I spoke some version of mantra which is “I accept and expect I will be involved in a lethal encounter today, and I will do everything I can to insure my survival.” (8:36)
• As soon as the muzzle of my gun touches his body, and I fire my first round, the knife penetrates my neck, just above the left clavicle. (19:24)
• I started on my tactical breathing to slow everything down, so that hopefully I would bleed out. (21:31)
• My first thought was, “Oh shit”, not because I was scared but because I knew I couldn’t get out of the way and I was gonna be stabbed. (28:32)
• The trauma doctor attributed not only my survival but her [the victim’s] survival to physical conditioning. (29:35)
• It missed my carotid [artery] by less than an inch. (33:05)
• [The perpetrator] was a 26 year old guy with his whole life ahead of him. He had a family who loved him. (35:07)
• I survived because I was prepared. (39:16)
• I wasn’t thinking I was gonna die, I was too focused on living. (39:47)
• I knew that if I was in a knife fight I would probably be cut, but it would be what I did next that mattered. (44:18)

Socials:
  - juliewerhnyak.com
  - team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Navyfederal.org       
  - Aura.com/TNQ
  - Moink.com/TNQ
  - PXG.com/TNQ
  - Mackweldon.com [TNQ]
  - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]

  - Robinhood.com
  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]
  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]
  - Shopify.com/TNQ
  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]
  - Policygenius.com