In this engaging discussion, Mike Glover, a former Green Beret and CIA contractor, shares his journey from military elite to entrepreneurship as the CEO of Fieldcraft Survival. He recounts intense experiences in combat, the rigorous training that shaped him, and his struggles transitioning to civilian life. With a focus on personal defense, Glover emphasizes the importance of preparedness and mental health, while sharing humorous anecdotes and insights on authentic living. His dedication to community support and survival training shines through in this compelling conversation.
Mike Glover led a dedicated Afghan force through intense combat situations, showcasing their commitment and drive to succeed.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be emotionally challenging and requires seeking help and coping strategies.
The importance of personal defense and medical training is emphasized for saving lives in emergency situations.
Elite special operations veterans face the struggle of reconditioning after realizing they are not viewed as god-like figures in society.
Yoga and self-care played a critical role in helping the speaker overcome isolation and navigate through tough personal struggles.
Deep dives
Building Rapport with Afghan Commandos
Upon arrival in Afghanistan, Mike Glover takes charge of a hundred and forty-four Afghan commandos. Trained by previous Special Operations units, these men impress him with their discipline, heart, and solid training. Glover engages in daily small unit tactics training with them, recognizing their commitment and drive to succeed.
Setting up Base Defense and Operations
Within two days of entering the country, Mike Glover is out on his first operation after a brief meet with a village elder. Assigned as the commander of base security and defense, Glover trains his Afghan force diligently, helping them improve capabilities and readiness. The team faces rockets, attacks, and requires constant vigilance.
Getting into Engagements Outside the Fire Base
Mike Glover leads his team in engagements outside the fire base, including a gunfight in the Coach Alley. Responding to attacks, they bring in Marine support, facing significant challenges including the loss of a valuable helicopter and personnel. Their actions reflect the intense and varied nature of their missions.
Navigating High-Risk Operations
Despite primarily facing base defense duties and responding to rocket attacks, Mike Glover and his team encounter intense moments in engagements. Balancing training, teamwork, and operational responses, they face daunting challenges in a volatile environment. The team's dedication and preparedness shine through in these high-pressure situations, underscoring their resilience and professionalism.
Transitioning from Military Operations to Civilian Life
Transitioning from military operations to civilian life can be challenging, as highlighted in the podcast episode. The speaker shared their personal experience of struggling with sleep, anxiety, and isolation during the transition period. They reflected on feeling like a 'bad guy' due to personal decisions affecting relationships and hitting a low point where they contemplated suicide.
Coping Strategies and Turning Point
Following a dark period of isolation and contemplation of suicide, the speaker turned to yoga as a coping strategy. Attending hot yoga classes helped relieve stress and provided a positive outlet during a difficult time. With small incremental steps and a commitment to self-care, the speaker began to pull themselves out of the emotional turmoil they were facing.
Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Help
Despite facing failed relationships and personal struggles, the speaker emphasized the importance of seeking help and finding coping mechanisms like yoga to navigate through tough times. By gradually focusing on self-improvement and reaching out for assistance, the speaker was able to move forward and work towards rebuilding their life after a challenging transition from military service to civilian living.
Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
Adapting to civilian life after being in elite special operations can be challenging. The transition can make you realize that you are just a regular human, not a god-like figure anymore. Society often doesn't understand the experiences of veterans, and reconditioning is necessary to cope with the change. It is crucial to identify a new purpose outside of the military to navigate the difficulties of the transition.
Focus on Preparedness and Personal Defense
Prioritizing personal defense and medical training is essential. Starting with learning how to handle a firearm, moving on to tactical combat casualty care (TCCC), and carrying essential medical equipment can save lives. Carrying a well-equipped everyday carry bag is recommended to extend your capabilities beyond what can be carried on your person, along with a modern survival kit for emergency situations.
In this episode Shawn Ryan sits down with Mike Glover, a former Green Beret, CIA Contractor, and currently the CEO of Fieldcraft Survival. Mike talks about his childhood and how it lead him to an impressive career as one of the world's most elite operators. Mike opens up about his experiences training to become a Green Beret, his personal experiences in combat, what lead him to become a CIA Contractor, his struggle to transition into civilian life, and his latest adventures as a business owner and entrepreneur of Fieldcraft Survival.
