#177 Captain Brad Geary - The Sinister Games the Military Plays in Hiding the Truth
Feb 28, 2025
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Captain Brad Geary, a Navy SEAL officer with 24 years in Naval Special Warfare, shares his insights on pivotal military issues. He addresses the tragic death of SEAL candidate Kyle Mullen and the controversy that ensued, shedding light on leadership accountability and the psychological toll of military investigations. Geary discusses the challenges of military justice, urging for systemic reform, and examines the need for cultural shifts in military training to support mental well-being. He emphasizes fostering innovation and teamwork to adapt to an evolving military landscape.
Captain Brad Geary's experience highlights the severe emotional toll and public scrutiny faced by military personnel under investigation.
The episode discusses the need for reforms in military justice processes to ensure fair treatment for those accused of misconduct.
Geary emphasizes the critical role of congressional support in advocating for military personnel and addressing systemic injustices.
The podcast reflects on the psychological impacts of leadership, cautioning against the disconnect power can create between leaders and their subordinates.
Deep dives
Sponsorship and Tax Filing Solutions
The episode opens with a discussion of TurboTax's new features, which assist users in filing their taxes with greater ease. TurboTax offers expert help that utilizes advanced technology to ensure tax return accuracy, guaranteeing maximum refunds. This segment underscores the growing importance of user-friendly software, especially during tax season when frustrations often arise from complex forms. The promotion sets the tone for the episode, emphasizing the convenience provided by technological advancements in everyday tasks.
The Case of Kyle Mullins
The hosts recount the tragic case of Kyle Mullins, a Bud's candidate who died during training, and the subsequent controversies surrounding the investigation into his death. The commanding officer, Brad Geary, faced accusations linking him to a cover-up involving performance-enhancing drugs believed to contribute to Mullins' death. Geary explains the efforts made to bring the truth to light, including engaging with legal representation and garnering support from congressional figures. He highlights the eventual dismissal of the case, although the long-term effects on his career and reputation remain a concern.
Understanding Power Dynamics in Leadership
The conversation shifts to leadership and the psychological impacts of power on individuals in high-ranking positions. Geary reflects on a critical article titled 'Power Causes Brain Damage,' which discusses how long-term power can cloud judgment and create a disconnect between leaders and subordinates. He emphasizes the importance of remaining grounded and the necessity of surrounding oneself with honest, peer-level advisors to prevent hubris. The segment serves as a cautionary tale about leadership integrity and the need for self-awareness among commanders.
Challenges in Military Investigations
Another issue raised is the military's investigative processes and how they can perpetuate distrust within the ranks. Geary explains that while he was dealt with fairly during the initial investigation, many in positions of power continued to defend a flawed system rather than honor the truth. He describes how the pressure to maintain the institution's reputation often leads to unjust outcomes, which can leave the affected personnel feeling powerless. The segment highlights the institutional challenges faced by those within the military when they attempt to stand up against misconduct.
Support from Congress and Community
The role of congressional support in Geary's case is emphasized as he discusses how various senators and representatives joined the fight for justice. Geary shares specific anecdotes about engagements with lawmakers who helped elevate awareness of the injustices he faced. Their commitment to protecting military personnel from unfair treatment demonstrates the importance of advocacy beyond the ranks. This support not only reflects the trust in Geary's character but also a broader concern for systemic issues present within military structures.
The Emotional Toll of Public Scrutiny
Geary candidly discusses the emotional and mental toll that public scrutiny has taken on him and his family during the ordeal. He recounts specific low points, including a moment where he felt overwhelmed and doubted his capacity to continue fighting back against the accusations. Anxiety and despair can quickly manifest when one's reputation and livelihood are at stake, resonating with many who have faced similar circumstances. This segment brings attention to the mental health challenges facing service members under investigation or public criticism.
The Need for Change in Military Justice
The conversation explores the urgent necessity for reforms in military justice processes to better protect individuals under investigation. Geary argues that the current system disproportionately punishes those who are accused, leading to potentially devastating consequences. He calls for administrative changes that would allow for civilian representation and oversight, ensuring fairness in investigations. This discussion underscores the need to create a more supportive environment for service members, balancing accountability with protection against unjust treatment.
Empowering the Next Generation
Geary emphasizes the importance of empowering the younger generation within Naval Special Warfare, highlighting their potential for innovation. He encourages listeners to actively support and mentor the younger service members, ensuring they feel equipped to manage the challenges and ambitions of modern military service. By fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and creativity, the military can better adapt to evolving threats and conditions. This segment inspires hope for the future within the military structure, emphasizing the need for affirming the value of younger personnel.
Captain Bradley Geary is a Navy SEAL officer with a distinguished 24-year career in Naval Special Warfare. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2000 with a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and completed SEAL Qualification Training with class 234. Geary has served in various leadership roles, including at SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team TWO, SEAL Team FOUR, and as Commanding Officer of Naval Special Warfare Basic Training Command.
In 2022, Geary faced controversy following the death of SEAL candidate Kyle Mullen during "Hell Week" training. He was accused of dereliction of duty and negligent command supervision, leading to a board of inquiry scheduled for November 2024. Geary defended the SEAL training process, arguing its effectiveness in preparing warfighters, while acknowledging the need for refinement. As of December 2024, disciplinary efforts against Geary were dropped by the Navy.
