Lesser Known Operators

Nicholas Allen
  • 4.9 (28)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Lesser Known Operators is my attempt to sit down and interview as many of the military's Special Operations Forces also known as "Operators" as I possibly can. There are a lot of really great "Operators" out there that no one has ever heard about. I want to go in to their experiences and learn some more about the best there are in our military.

  1. 107 - JJ Pinter & Team RWB: Community, Accountability & The GWOT 100

    1D AGO

    107 - JJ Pinter & Team RWB: Community, Accountability & The GWOT 100

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.   Instagram – @teamrwb  GWOT100 Virtual Event – RunSignUp In this conversation, JJ Pinter, the deputy director of Team RWB, shares insights into the organization's mission to support veterans through health and wellness initiatives. He discusses the challenges of nonprofit fundraising, the importance of community engagement, and the evolution of Team RWB's mission. The conversation also highlights the GWOT 100 event, which aims to engage veterans through storytelling and physical activity, while addressing the victim narrative that often surrounds veteran care. Pinter emphasizes the need for personal accountability in veterans' transitions to civilian life and the importance of maintaining a clear mission to avoid mission creep in nonprofit organizations. In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and JJ Pinter discuss the personal journey of JJ with Team RWB, the challenges of leadership in a nonprofit environment, and the importance of community and connection for veterans. They delve into the issues of mental health and substance abuse within the veteran community, highlighting the shift in conversations around these topics. The discussion also covers innovative approaches to fitness and engagement, the GWOT 100 event, and the ongoing efforts to measure success in nonprofit work. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the significance of support, connection, and personal growth in the transition from military to civilian life.

    2h 4m
  2. 106 - From Coast Guard to Coach: Andrew Siepka on Leadership, Fitness & Healing

    DEC 23

    106 - From Coast Guard to Coach: Andrew Siepka on Leadership, Fitness & Healing

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @siepka_ludus_ In this conversation, Andrew Siepka shares his journey from military service to becoming a strength and conditioning coach. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in coaching, resilience through hardship, and finding one's purpose. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media on fitness culture, the need for flexibility within training standards, and the significance of empowering women in the fitness industry. Andrew reflects on his experiences in the Coast Guard and the lessons learned about teamwork and personal growth. In this conversation, Andrew Siepka shares his journey from military service to civilian life, discussing the challenges of deployment, mental health struggles, and the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. He emphasizes the need for connection and community support, as well as his commitment to helping others through mentorship and fitness. The discussion highlights the impact of personal experiences on professional growth and the ongoing journey of self-discovery and healing.

    2h 14m
  3. 105 - Stew Smith: Mobility, Mental Toughness & the Evolution of Tactical Fitness

    DEC 20

    105 - Stew Smith: Mobility, Mental Toughness & the Evolution of Tactical Fitness

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @stewsmith50 Stew Smith Fitness Website In this engaging conversation, Nicholas Allen interviews Stew Smith, a seasoned tactical fitness coach and author, who shares his insights on the importance of mobility in swimming, the mental toughness required for special operations, and the evolution of training methods. They discuss the challenges of training in public pools, the significance of recovery and nutrition, and how social media influences military recruitment. Stew emphasizes the need for tailored training programs and the importance of teamwork and mindset in achieving fitness goals. In this conversation, Stew Smith and Nicholas Allen discuss various aspects of military training, personal growth, and the transition from military to civilian life. They delve into swimming techniques, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced by veterans as they navigate their new lives. The discussion also touches on the evolution of training methods, the significance of community support, and the impact of military experiences on personal identity. Throughout the conversation, both speakers share insights and anecdotes that highlight the resilience and adaptability required in both military and civilian contexts.

    2h 8m
  4. 104 - Michael Green on Training Civilians, Military Culture & the Dangers of Complacency

    DEC 15

    104 - Michael Green on Training Civilians, Military Culture & the Dangers of Complacency

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @michael.green.18f In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and Michael Green discuss the transition from military to civilian life, the challenges of contracting, and the importance of networking and social media. They explore the significance of finding purpose after service, the role of hobbies in maintaining mental health, and the value of military experience in civilian life. The discussion also touches on leadership, personal growth, and the dangers of losing control in one's life. In this conversation, Michael Green and Nicholas Allen discuss various themes related to military experiences, the impact of toxic relationships, the challenges faced by women in the military, and the importance of quality training for civilians. They explore the evolution of military groups, the cultural differences among them, and the significance of competition in skill development. The conversation also touches on the suicide epidemic within the military community and emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive measures to address mental health issues. Ultimately, they advocate for empowering individuals through training and knowledge to enhance personal safety and self-defense capabilities.

    2h 10m
  5. 103 - G-Chief Leather: How Chris Murillo Found Purpose Beyond the Uniform

    DEC 12

    103 - G-Chief Leather: How Chris Murillo Found Purpose Beyond the Uniform

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @gchiefleather In this episode of Lesser Known Operators, host Nicholas Allen speaks with Chris Murillo, a former Green Beret and founder of G-Chief Leather. They discuss the transition from military to civilian life, the importance of finding purpose after service, and the emotional impact of retirement. Murillo shares his journey into leather crafting and how he aims to give back to the veteran community through mentorship and craftsmanship. The conversation highlights the significance of community, the challenges of social media, and the responsibility of veterans to support one another.

    1h 1m
  6. 102 - EDM4V: Rob Bailey on Identity, EDM, and the Iron Triangle of Veteran Healing

    DEC 8

    102 - EDM4V: Rob Bailey on Identity, EDM, and the Iron Triangle of Veteran Healing

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @edm4v In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and Rob Bailey explore the unconventional journey from military service to the world of electronic dance music (EDM) and its therapeutic potential for veterans. Rob shares his personal experiences with mental health, identity, and purpose after leaving the military, emphasizing the importance of self-care and community. He introduces the concept of the 'Iron Triangle' as a framework for healing, which includes physical fitness, nutrition, and cognitive conditioning. The discussion highlights the significance of music as a tool for therapy and connection, particularly in the context of EDM festivals, where individuals can find solace and camaraderie. Rob's mission is to create a supportive community for veterans, helping them navigate their struggles while fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. In this conversation, Rob Bailey and Nicholas Allen explore various themes surrounding personal growth, mental health, and the importance of community support. They discuss the significance of finding the right diet for individual needs, the necessity of vulnerability in seeking help, and the challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of gratitude, the impact of significant emotional events, and the need for a supportive tribe. They also touch on the suicide crisis among veterans and the importance of sharing lessons learned to help others. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the journey of reclaiming identity and purpose after service, and the legacy one can create through support and understanding.

    2h 10m
  7. 101 - Geoff Dardia: Rewiring the Warrior—Trauma, Plant Medicine & the Battle for Better Care

    DEC 3

    101 - Geoff Dardia: Rewiring the Warrior—Trauma, Plant Medicine & the Battle for Better Care

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @geoff_rdcc Instagram – @sof_health_initiative In this episode, Nicholas Allen speaks with Geoff Dardia, founder of SOF Health Initiatives Program at Task Force Dagger, about the mental health challenges faced by veterans, particularly the impact of childhood trauma and substance abuse. They discuss the importance of community support, the need for cultural changes within the military, and the role of empathy in healing. The conversation highlights the struggles of transitioning from military to civilian life and the inadequacies of the healthcare system in addressing veterans' needs. Dardia emphasizes the importance of open conversations about mental health and the need for veterans to seek help and support from their communities. In this conversation, Geoff Dardia discusses the multifaceted approach to healing from lead toxicity, the impact of media and targeted marketing on health perceptions, and the importance of navigating the VA healthcare system effectively. He emphasizes the need for community involvement and political engagement to drive systemic change in healthcare. Dardia also shares his journey in founding Soft Health Initiatives, highlighting the effects of chronic stress and toxicity on health, the flaws in modern medicine, and the ethical considerations surrounding plant medicine. The conversation culminates in a call to action for individuals to take control of their health and advocate for better systems.

    2h 16m
  8. 100 - Mom’s Basement MMA: UFC Lessons, Special Ops Grit, and the Fighter’s Path with Connor Matthews

    NOV 26

    100 - Mom’s Basement MMA: UFC Lessons, Special Ops Grit, and the Fighter’s Path with Connor Matthews

    Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout. Instagram – @connormatthews.ufc In this episode of Lesser Known Operators, host Nicholas Allen interviews Connor Matthews, a former United States Air Force combat controller and MMA fighter. They discuss Connor's journey from being a hockey player to pursuing a career in mixed martial arts, the rigorous training pipeline for combat controllers, and the challenges he faced in the UFC. Connor shares insights on the importance of mental resilience, the impact of COVID-19 on training opportunities, and his experience building a gym called Mom's Basement MMA. The conversation highlights the balance between Connor's fighting career and his current pursuit of becoming a firefighter, showcasing his dedication and passion for both fields. In this engaging conversation, Connor shares his journey through martial arts, his experiences in the military, and his transition to civilian life as a firefighter and gym owner. The discussion covers the evolution of combat sports, the culture of alcohol in the military, and the challenges faced by new generations in special operations. Connor reflects on his UFC experiences and the importance of community and mentorship in both military and civilian settings.

    2h 5m
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4.9
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

Lesser Known Operators is my attempt to sit down and interview as many of the military's Special Operations Forces also known as "Operators" as I possibly can. There are a lot of really great "Operators" out there that no one has ever heard about. I want to go in to their experiences and learn some more about the best there are in our military.

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