Lesser Known Operators

• Episode 22 - Adam Klakowicz - Green Beret & Owner of Raw Graffix

  https://www.instagram.com/akraw215/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/rawgraffix215/?hl=enIn this engaging conversation, Adam Klakowicz shares his unique journey from being a Green Beret to embracing his passions for skateboarding and boxing. He reflects on the challenges of transitioning from military life to civilian life, the influence of his family, particularly his Vietnam veteran father, and the importance of storytelling in understanding personal and shared experiences. Adam also discusses his entrepreneurial ventures in art and printing, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, personal growth, and the impact of past experiences on shaping one's identity. In this conversation, Adam Klakowicz shares his journey from amateur boxing to professional fighting, discussing the challenges he faced during selection for the military and the transition to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of endurance, mental toughness, and the lessons learned throughout his experiences. The conversation also touches on the fears that arise after service and the reflections on accomplishments and regrets in both boxing and military careers. This conversation explores the journey of a soldier through various stages of military life, focusing on the challenges, training, and experiences that shape their identity as a Green Beret. The discussion highlights the importance of leadership, teamwork, and adaptability in navigating the complexities of military operations, as well as the transition to civilian life and the impact of military service on community engagement.

  --------  

  3:11:25
• Episode 21 - 18GoodGuy - Green Beret

  https://www.instagram.com/18goodguy/?hl=enIn this conversation, Nicholas Allen speaks with 18GoodGuy, an advocate for protagonism and a member of the special forces community. They discuss the importance of social media in shaping perceptions of military life, the balance between professionalism and personal branding, and the evolving landscape of recruitment and training in the military. They also delve into the significance of mental health awareness, the journey to becoming a Green Beret, and the challenges faced by those who do not make it through selection. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care and the impact of personal experiences on professional development. In this conversation, 18GoodGuy discusses the importance of mental health awareness in the military, the dynamics of teamwork in special operations, and the evolution of military culture. He emphasizes the need for vulnerability and openness among teammates, the significance of earning the beret, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. The discussion also touches on the role of literature and philosophy in personal growth, the complexities of team relationships, and the importance of finding purpose in life. 18GoodGuy shares insights on navigating current global conflicts and the readiness of military personnel to respond to crises.

  --------  

  2:29:54
• Episode 20 - Chuck Ritter - Green Beret & Chief Operations Officer at Objective Arete

  https://www.instagram.com/chuck.p.ritter/?hl=enhttps://objectivearete.com/In this episode of Lesser Known Operators, host Nicholas Allen interviews Chuck Ritter, a Green Beret educator and world traveler. They discuss resilience in the military, the importance of mental health, and the stigma surrounding it. Chuck shares his personal journey of recovery from severe injuries and the lessons learned about physical and mental resilience. The conversation also touches on the addiction to combat, the significance of documenting health issues, and the need for a cultural shift in how mental health is perceived in the military. Chuck emphasizes the importance of being proactive about one's health and the value of investing in oneself. In this conversation, Chuck Ritter and Nicholas Allen reflect on their military experiences, discussing the value of time, the lessons learned from their service, and the importance of leadership and humility. They share insights on the challenges of military life, the evolution of special forces training, and the complexities of operations in various environments. The discussion emphasizes the need for personal growth, the significance of teamwork, and the importance of learning from past mistakes to improve future military strategies. In this conversation, Chuck Ritter shares his experiences in the military, focusing on the physical training, team culture, and the importance of accountability and leadership. He discusses the cognitive challenges faced after injuries and the transition to civilian life, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and personal development. Chuck introduces his new venture, Objective Arete, aimed at fostering a community of self-improvement and authenticity. The discussion highlights the need for genuine connections and the impact of storytelling in personal and professional growth.

  --------  

  2:51:41
• Episode 19 - Bob DePrato - Green Beret & Country Music Artist

  https://www.instagram.com/robertdeprato/https://open.spotify.com/artist/6W7JTUgPjvvhWKVmwwRuC7?si=6skcMXvyREO0SU5FlBkFsQIn this conversation, Bob DePrato, a retired Green Beret, shares his experiences transitioning from military to civilian life, the challenges of military culture, and the impact of war on personal and community levels. He discusses the healing journey post-service, the role of music in his life, and the importance of community for veterans. Bob reflects on the realities of military life, relationships after service, and the ongoing struggles many veterans face. In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and Bob DePrato discuss the challenges faced during military selection processes, the importance of teamwork, and the personal struggles with addiction that many service members encounter. They share insights on the impact of substance use on mental health and the journey towards recovery, emphasizing the need for support and understanding within the military community. The discussion also touches on the experiences in the Q course and the unique challenges that arise during training. In this conversation, Bob DePrato shares his journey of overcoming addiction, the challenges of military life, and the healing power of music. He reflects on his experiences in the special forces, the importance of mental health, and his aspirations for a music career. Bob emphasizes the significance of finding balance and creating healthy patterns in life, while also discussing the struggles of transitioning from military to civilian life. Through songwriting, he expresses his emotions and experiences, aiming to connect with others who may be facing similar challenges.

  --------  

  3:00:27
• Episode 18 - Kevin "Edge" Edgerton - Green Beret & Owner of 18 Alpha Fitness

  https://www.18afitness.com/https://www.instagram.com/18a_fitness/In this conversation, Nicholas Allen interviews Kevin Edgerton, a former Special Forces operator and current fitness coach. They discuss Kevin's journey through the military, his fears and motivations, the challenges of selection, and the importance of mental resilience in training. Kevin shares his experiences in the Philippines, the impact of service and sacrifice, and his transition to a career in fitness coaching. The conversation highlights the significance of leadership, teamwork, and the mental aspects of military training. In this conversation, Kevin shares his journey from aspiring to be a physician assistant to becoming a fitness expert in the military. He reflects on the allure of different career paths, the lessons learned from academic challenges, and the evolution of fitness within special operations. Kevin discusses the importance of mental resilience, the unique challenges faced by Air Force special operations, and the reality of transitioning from military to civilian life. He emphasizes the significance of treating others well, the drive required for success, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.

  --------  

  2:23:05

More Government podcasts

Trending Government podcasts

About Lesser Known Operators