Cleared Hot

James Arthur Ray, who at his pinnacle was celebrated as a self-help guru with a New York Times bestseller and Oprah's nod of approval. James' world came crashing down following a tragic incident in 2009, sending him to prison, and leaving him 20 million in debt, homelessness, and social exile. It was in this darkest hour that Bersabeh, a survivor of the tumultuous landscapes of Iran, brought a beacon of hope, understanding, and belief in redemption that the world seemed to have withdrawn from James. Together, James and Bersabeh, affectionately known as "Bear," share their incredible tale of resilience, love, and transformation. With over three decades of collective wisdom and insight into human behavior, they are on a mission to revolutionize the personal development industry. They openly discuss their personal stories of adversity, the lessons learned from hitting rock bottom, and how they've used these experiences to forge a new path for others seeking to understand life and themselves better. Whether you'r

Michael Montoya is a veteran with over 15 years of experience in military and security sectors, specializing in EOD/IEDD/CIED/HMA operations. Michael's extensive experience has seen him providing training and operational support across the globe, from the volatile terrains of Iraq and Kurdistan to the challenging environments of Africa and Pakistan. As an independent contractor, his work under the U.S. State Department's AFRICAP and GPOI initiatives has empowered over 600 trainees. We took a deep dive into Montoya's extensive career, from his days in the United States Marine Corps serving as an EOD team leader in Iraq and Afghanistan to his work as a senior trainer and analyst managing multimillion-dollar budgets for training programs. Michael is now focusing his efforts on Invictus Global Response, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mine action, capacity building, and humanitarian aid in conflict-affected regions. During a recent clearance operation in Ukraine, he tragically lost his foot to a landmine, a

Strength, Struggle, and Service We are diving into resilience, dedication, and overcoming adversity today. All of the questions are listener-submitted, and I hope that the answers help in some way, both to the people who submitted, and those of us out there dealing with our own battles. From Trials to Triumph: A listener shares the riveting journey of her son's transformation from a troubled youth to an aspiring Navy SEAL. At just 14, he embodies the essence of hard work, discipline, and the dream of serving his country. How can parents support their children to achieve their dreams, even when they are scared of where their journey may lead? Battling Betrayal and Building Resilience: A heart-wrenching narrative from an Army combat vet facing the darkest moments of his life, betrayed by his spouse amid a custody battle, all while grappling with PTSD. The Weight of Transformation: A listener recounts his incredible weight loss journey, inspired by giants in the fitness and motivation world, leading to a transfo

Dustin Diefenderfer is the founder of MTNTOUGH.com. Born from a deep connection with the wilderness and a desire to merge physical fitness with the raw challenges of nature, Dustin shares his journey from the confines of Corporate America to the liberating peaks of Montana's rugged landscape. Dustin reveals how his college days, initially marked by routine workouts, evolved into a profound exploration of goal-specific training alongside a future wildland firefighter. This experience laid the groundwork for a lifelong passion for hardcore training, ultramarathon running, and, most importantly, the development of mental toughness. Dustin recounts the moments that led to the birth of MTNTOUGH — the first fitness regimen designed specifically for backcountry hunters. Over time he transitioned from a promising career in business management to impactful humanitarian work in Uganda, and eventually, to revolutionizing the way hunters and outdoor enthusiasts prepare for the challenges of the wilderness. MTNTOUGH is a

We are back again with a role reversal, turning the microphone towards the man usually behind the scenes – show producer, Michael Shelton. I never know where these conversations are going to lead, since I am turning the questions over to Michael, a man with an internet search history that has likely landed him on a variety of watchlists. There was absolutely no structure to this episode, where we covered everything from the emergence of Ai and the new text to video tools coming on the market, anxiety in younger generations, the authenticity of military movies, the death of the Boeing whistleblower, and much more. The thumbnail will make more sense if you can make it to the end of the episode. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Ian Cockburn is a survivor of one of the most harrowing health scandals in UK history. At just six years old Ian was battling childhood Leukemia, and during one of his final treatments was infected with Hepatitis C through a contaminated blood transfusion—a fallout from the UK's importation of unscreened blood products over two decades. His medical journey began with a dramatic evacuation to a UK airbase, then a fight against Hep-C, which threatened not only his life but his dream of serving his country. Ian opens up about the subsequent government and NHS cover-up that prolonged the crisis, the personal and professional hurdles he faced due to the infection, and how he overcame these challenges to live a fulfilling life with his family. Despite being barred from joining the British Army in his youth due to his medical history, Ian's unwavering determination, inspired by military podcasts, led him to reapply as a reservist and volunteer police officer, achieving success in both endeavors. The UK public inquir

Before diving into listener questions, let's chat a bit about integrity and the value of taking responsibility for our actions. We all make mistakes, it is actually very easy to address them, which allows you to learn and grow. 1. The Digital Dilemma in Parenting: A listener raises an important issue often overlooked – the impact of social media and technology on parenting. As the first generation of parents navigating the iPhone and social media era, how does this consumption affect our children and contribute to societal issues?  2. Finding Footing After Divorce: This two-part question delves into the process of handling separation with fairness and respect, and later, the fears and hopes tied to finding love again post-divorce. 3. Security Concerns and Global Perspectives: Our final question brings an international viewpoint on immigration and security, questioning why the potential for terrorism isn't a more prominent concern amidst current discussions focused on issues like drug trafficking.  Wolf 21- Ch

Bert Sorin has had an incredible journey, from a young boy with a barbell in his hands to becoming a 4-time Division 1 All-American in Track and Field, an SEC Champion, and an Olympic trials athlete. His story doesn't end there; as the President and Co-Owner of Sorinex Exercise Equipment, Bert, together with his father Richard Sorin, has revolutionized the way athletes and warriors prepare for their battles, whether on the sports field or the battlefield. Bert's equipment is not just about physical readiness; it's about rebuilding lives and providing support before, during, and after deployments. With a vast network of veterans, scientists, coaches, and therapists, Bert's mission is to bring out the best in people, pushing them to explore their potential and maximize their contribution to the world. Bert is a man whose life has been a testament to the power of strength, both physical and mental. Bert, alongside his wife Lesley, has raised a family with a legacy deeply entrenched in human performance, setting

How do we protect our children from the dangers lurking online via smartphones? How do we need to adapt our parenting skills in a digital age? That's not all –What do we do when trust and intimacy in a marriage are shaken by the hidden use of pornography. What impact does pornography have on relationships, the importance of communication, and strategies for healing and restoring intimacy. Next, shifting gears to a lighter yet equally important debate in the martial arts world: the merits of training with a GI versus no-GI in jiu-jitsu, especially for young practitioners. A concerned parent shares his dilemma after his 5-year-old daughter learns a move that seems impractical for self-defense without a GI. We'll dissect the philosophies behind GI and no-GI training, their applicability in real-life scenarios, and how to empower our children with the right skills for self-defense. Wolf 21- Check out what they have to offer for the best sleep of your life: https://www.thewolf21.com Use Code: "clearedhot" for 30%

Christopher Frueh, PhD., is a renowned clinical psychologist and Professor of Psychology at the University of Hawaii-Hilo. Chris brings over three decades of experience working intimately with military veterans and active-duty personnel. His pioneering research on "Operator Syndrome" is redefining our approach to the multifaceted health, psychological, and interpersonal challenges faced by those in military special operations. Join us as Chris shares insights from his extensive career, including his work with prestigious organizations like the SEAL Future Foundation and Boulder Crest Foundation, his testimony before US Congress, and his role as a consultant for the Department of Defense and other key agencies. We explore the implications of his findings for the treatment and understanding of Operator Syndrome and discuss how his efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of our most elite warriors. Chris's expertise doesn't end with psychology. Under the pen name Christopher Bartley, he has authore

Today we are tackling some listener-submitted questions, shedding light on the seldom-discussed operational use of scuba gear in real-world missions, the intricate balance of combat training, and the innovative development side of the SEAL teams, and of course, some relationship advice. 1. A deep dive into the waters of SEAL operations, exploring the real-life application of scuba gear in the field, the emphasis on shooting and CQB, and the vital role of development within the SEAL community. From parachuting innovations to sharing cutting-edge tactics with the broader SEAL teams, and the role of NSW Development Group in shaping the greater SOF community.  2. After nearly a decade together, a man's world is rocked by his wife's revelation that their futures may not align. They stand at the crossroads of differing passions and life goals, love, personal growth, and the quest for mutual fulfillment. Can a relationship weather the storm of divergent dreams? How does one support a partner in discovering their tru

Scott Tatum is a seasoned veteran in the fields of emergency medicine and tactical medical support. With over 35 years of experience, Scott's career has spanned the adrenaline-fueled roles of helicopter rescue work, street medic, and currently, the med team leader for a county sheriff's Bomb Squad and Tact Team, in addition to teaching tactics to aircrew members for US Customs and Border Protection Air & Marine Operations. This episode, however, takes us on a different kind of mission: Scott shares the profound and personal story of fulfilling a promise to his mother as she faced the end of her life due to aggressive cancer. The decision to ensure her passing was without suffering, the conversations had, the goodbyes shared, and the ultimate act of love and duty performed. Scott opens up about the mental and emotional toll this experience exerted on him, leading to a complete erasure of his memories of his mother before that fateful day. Despite undergoing extensive therapy, including EMDR, the memories r

We are diving deep into the heart of personal struggle, resilience, and the journey toward healing amidst life's most challenging moments. Part 1: A tale of betrayal and self-discovery unfolds as one listener shares the heart-wrenching journey of dealing with infidelity, emotional abuse, and the looming shadow of divorce. With young children and a family in turmoil, this story navigates the delicate balance of protecting loved ones while honoring one's own worth and seeking a path to healing. The listener questions how to recognize when a marriage is beyond repair and how to approach the possibility of divorce without fracturing the fragile world their children inhabit. Part 2: From the grip of domestic violence to the precipice of life-altering decisions, another listener recounts the harrowing escape from an abusive stepfather and the complex dynamics of a family torn apart by violence and betrayal. Caught between the dreams of education and the harsh realities of survival, he contemplates the merits of mil

We are diving into the heart of Eurasian geopolitics with Curtis L. Fox, author of the groundbreaking book Hybrid Warfare: The Russian Approach to Strategic Competition and Conventional Military Conflict. Launching into a deep exploration of Russia's historical military strategies and its contemporary geopolitical maneuvers, Fox offers unparalleled insights into the Kremlin's objectives, its relentless pursuit in Ukraine, and the inner mechanics of its formidable military and intelligence apparatus. With Russia's economic tenacity and military prowess on full display, we dissect the nation's will to press on in the conflict, assess its strategic goals, and the potential ramifications on global stability. Curtis, a former Green Beret who mastered the Russian language and studied Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech before venturing into Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, provides a unique perspective on what Russia hopes to achieve and the lengths it may go to secure victory. This episode not onl

Food for thought, what does it take to change someone's mind? Why do we believe in the things that we do? Is it even possible to change someone's mind, or do they have to arrive at that point on their own? In the second half of the episode, I address two listener-submitted questions, both touching on the challenges of navigating relationships as life and environments shift around you. Up first is a couple that uprooted their lives for new opportunities, only to find one partner unhappy in the new situation and facing a lack of motivation and satisfaction. The second question is a shift in gears towards the dynamics of apologies within a long-term marriage. How can one effectively disengage after making amends, especially when it feels like forgiveness is just out of reach? Wolf 21- Check out what they have to offer for the best sleep of your life: https://www.thewolf21.com Use Code: "clearedhot" for 30% off of your 1st order The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cl

Food for thought, what does it take to change someone's mind? Why do we believe in the things that we do? Is it even possible to change someone's mind, or do they have to arrive at that point on their own? In the second half of the episode, I address two listener-submitted questions, both touching on the challenges of navigating relationships as life and environments shift around you. Up first is a couple that uprooted their lives for new opportunities, only to find one partner unhappy in the new situation and facing a lack of motivation and satisfaction. The second question is a shift in gears towards the dynamics of apologies within a long-term marriage. How can one effectively disengage after making amends, especially when it feels like forgiveness is just out of reach? Wolf 21- Check out what they have to offer for the best sleep of your life: https://www.thewolf21.com Use Code: "clearedhot" for 30% off of your 1st order The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cl

William (Will) Yeske, is an 11-year combat veteran and the author of Damn The Valley, a book detailing time in the Arghandab River Valley during the deployment of 2 Fury to Afghanistan in 2009–2010. Nick Armendariz is a former Infantryman and Squad Leader with over 7.5 years of service, now serving as the Veterans Programs Director at The Independence Fund. Will Yeske has transitioned his battlefield acumen into a successful career as a serial entrepreneur. As the driving force behind No Limits Marketing Group (NLMG), Will applies a unique blend of modern marketing strategies and a non-lethal targeting framework derived from military principles to elevate small businesses. Alongside his professional achievements, Will is a dedicated parent and a proactive member of the veteran community, contributing to projects like Racing for Heroes, aimed at supporting fellow veterans. Nick Armendariz, also a seasoned combat veteran, served as an Infantryman and Squad Leader, accruing over 7.5 years of specialized military

Are we headed towards WW3? Is America about to crumble onto itself? Today, we are talking about an all too common narrative, that impending feeling that our world is teetering on the brink of chaos. With headlines screaming of global conflict and social upheaval, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and pessimistic about the future. But is this narrative of an impending World War III rooted in reality, or is it a byproduct of the relentless stream of negative information we're exposed to? In the second half of the episode, we shift gears to a more personal issue raised by a listener. After a decade of dedication to a full-time SWAT team, our listener has transitioned to an administrative role within his unit for the noble purpose of spending more time with his family. This change, while beneficial in many aspects, has led to a struggle with a sense of purpose and identity. The transition from an operational to a support role has yielded a professional void, despite the gains in work/life balance and personal well-be

Stephen Turner's life story embodies the spirit of true entrepreneurship, adventure, and community engagement. Stephen founded, owns, and operates Brother's Construction Inc. in Polson, Montana, and shares his insights into the world of entrepreneurship, and evolving business models as the world around us shifts, especially during the challenging times of COVID-19. In addition to his construction experience, Stephen has nearly three decades of flying as a licensed commercial pilot, offering a rare glimpse into the aviation world, including time spent as a pilot for the Montana Federal Reserve. Outside of his aviation career, Stephen has been a hunting guide in the breathtaking landscapes of Montana for over 27 years. Come along on a journey through the highs and lows of his multifaceted life. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an aviation enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or someone who cherishes community involvement, this episode has something for you. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedof

We are back again with a role reversal, turning the microphone towards the man usually behind the scenes – show producer, Michael Shelton. I never know where these conversations are going to lead, since I am turning the questions over to Michael, a man with an internet search history that has likely landed him on a variety of watchlists. There was absolutely no structure to this episode, where we covered everything from professional slap fighting, whether or not it is useful to rais your voice at any time, sexual dominance, and parenting failures. It is always a wild journey, I hope you enjoy it. The Speed of War Comic Series: https://www.thespeedofwar.com/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/