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Jocko Podcast

481: Deeds. Not Words. With Airborne Ranger, Will Bardenwerper

Mar 12, 2025
Will Bardenwerper, a former Airborne Ranger and author, shares gripping stories from his military service in Iraq and the challenges of transitioning to a writing career. He reflects on the emotional nuances of leadership in combat and the bonds formed through shared adversity. The conversation touches on the complexities of military life, navigating personal growth, and the deep connections fostered in communities around sports and storytelling. Bardenwerper also discusses the importance of resilience and taking action over mere words, providing a compelling perspective on life beyond the battlefield.
03:39:13

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast emphasizes the disconnect veterans feel when returning to a society largely unaware of their sacrifices and struggles.
  • It discusses the immense strain on military families due to prolonged deployments, underscoring the need for community support during these challenges.

Deep dives

The Impact of War on Society

The discussion highlights the stark contrast between the lives of soldiers deployed to combat zones and civilians at home, emphasizing the disconnect experienced by veterans returning to a society seemingly indifferent to their sacrifices. The speaker reflects on how, despite the seriousness of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, a portion of American society is oblivious, focusing instead on frivolous pursuits. The conversation acknowledges that while many soldiers volunteer for service, the notion that they willingly embrace prolonged deployments without acknowledging the psychological toll is misleading. This disparity raises concerns about the erosion of empathy and understanding towards those still engaged in conflict.

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