476: Dog Ain't Got Nuthin' For Ya. With Retired SEAL Harold "Dog" Underdown.
Feb 5, 2025
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Harold "Dog" Underdown, a retired Navy SEAL Master Chief and co-founder of Four Branches Bourbon, shares his fascinating journey from high school football to elite military training. He reflects on the importance of mentorship and camaraderie in the SEALs, as well as the grueling challenges faced during training. Dog also discusses his bourbon venture that honors military heroes, emphasizing community support and mindful drinking. His stories blend humor and gravity, capturing the essence of military life and the values that drive his mission.
New Navy SEAL recruits gain valuable insights from experienced teammates, shaping their resilience and self-reliance through direct feedback.
Harold Underdown attributes his strong work ethic and perseverance to his modest upbringing and experiences in sports, especially football.
His unexpected journey to the Navy SEALs stemmed from a pivotal encounter with a police officer, igniting a passion for special operations.
During high-pressure deployments, strong leadership and open communication are critical for maintaining team morale and camaraderie.
Four Branches Bourbon symbolizes a commitment to honor military service while emphasizing community support and veteran organizations through fundraising efforts.
Deep dives
First Impressions and Lessons Learned
In the early stages of their military careers, new SEAL recruits often gain profound insights from experienced teammates. The show reveals how inexperienced SEALs observe the behaviors and attitudes of seasoned operators to model their own conduct. One memorable character mentioned is a corpsman whose direct approach encouraged resilience among younger team members. He would assess injuries with the blunt reminder that they needed to 'suck it up,' instilling a mindset of self-reliance and problem-solving.
Reflections on Childhood and Early Years
The podcast guest recounts his modest childhood in a small North Carolina town, highlighting the strong work ethic instilled by his parents. His father, a skilled tradesman with limited education, and his mother, who worked long hours in a mill, worked tirelessly to support their household. This upbringing fostered values of hard work and perseverance, forming the foundation for his future. His early experiences in sports, particularly football, further developed his teamwork skills and competitive spirit.
The Journey to Joining the Military
The decision to join the military stemmed from a mix of youthful adventures and a pivotal encounter with a police officer. After a reckless incident involving a firecracker and a state trooper, a profound conversation with the officer steered the guest’s aspirations toward law enforcement. However, his path took a turn when he discovered the Navy SEALs through reading a magazine article, ultimately igniting a passion for special operations. This unexpected revelation led him to pursue Navy SEAL training, reshaping his future.
The Transformation of a New SEAL Recruit
Transitioning from civil life to Navy SEAL training can be jarring, and the guest reflects on his initial experiences in boot camp and then SEAL training. Entering the rigorous environment of BUD/S, he quickly realized the challenges ahead, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude. Overcoming obstacles such as drown-proofing tests built resilience and prepared him for the demanding lifestyle ahead. Completing the program not only earned him the coveted trident but also solidified his commitment to a path of service and discipline.
The Significance of Team Morale
High operational tempos and intense deployments can take a toll on morale, emphasizing the need for strong leadership in challenging environments. During deployments, the guest shared strategies to maintain morale among SEAL team members, including rotating personnel and keeping a close watch on their well-being. By fostering open communication and support within the unit, he aimed to create a positive environment conducive to both productivity and mental health. Recognizing the challenges faced by operators, he focused on building camaraderie and trust among the team.
A Look into Command Responsibilities
The transition into command roles requires adapting to new challenges while maintaining mission focus. Serving as a command master chief, the guest found himself juggling various responsibilities, from overseeing daily operations to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of his team. He stressed the importance of maintaining transparency, accountability, and open lines of communication within the team—not only with superiors but also with junior members. By doing so, he hoped to cultivate a culture of leadership and trust, allowing the unit to thrive in high-stress situations.
Responding to National Crises
Deploying to respond to natural disasters presents unique challenges, combining logistics with empathy. The guest's experience in Haiti during the aftermath of a devastating earthquake illustrated the collaborative spirit needed in such crises. Coordinating efforts involved communication with various organizations, understanding local needs, and maintaining the morale of both military personnel and displaced civilians. The mission underscored the necessity of adapting and prioritizing humanitarian efforts while preserving safety and security.
Establishing a Bourbon Brand
The guest shares his venture into the bourbon industry, emphasizing the collaboration with fellow veterans and entrepreneurs. Launching Four Branches Bourbon was not just about creating a beverage; it symbolized honoring their military service and shared experiences. The concept evolved from a simple idea into a fully-fledged brand, grounding itself in the values of teamwork and community. Their commitment to quality bourbon reflects the same dedication demonstrated during their military service, aiming to resonate with a broader audience.
Navigating the Business Landscape
Starting a new business in a competitive industry requires more than just passion; it demands strategic planning and adaptability. The guest reflects on the hurdles faced during the brand's inception, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating how challenges can present opportunities. Establishing connections within the industry and seeking mentorship led to the development of a strong branding image and outreach efforts. Their success highlights the importance of resilience and teamwork, skills honed during their time in service.
Giving Back to the Community
A fundamental aspect of the Four Branches ethos is its commitment to giving back to veteran organizations and community initiatives. By designating funds to support various causes, the brand aims to create a lasting impact beyond just selling bourbon. Their dedication is reflected in fundraising efforts, contributing to the mental health and well-being of veterans and active-duty service members. Through this mission, they hope to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility among all who enjoy their product.
Harold Underdown (aka Dog) is a co-founder of Four Branches Bourbon, where he brings his 30-year career as a Master Chief Naval Special Warfare (SEAL) to the company. As a former Navy SEAL Command Master Chief and VP of the UDT/SEAL Association, Harold leads Four Branches Bourbon's efforts to support special operations veterans and causes. He manages collaboration ventures and giveback initiatives, promoting the company's message of Drink Honorably. Currently, Harold is working onboard at Baker's Bay Golf and Ocean Club in the Bahamas as a Security Training Consultant for logistics, safety, and security. He's always down for a good pour and cigar, fishing, shooting, and anything outdoors. Go Navy!
