EP636: Fred Burton - Confessions Of A State Department Counterterrorism Operator

“You do have to set your goals. And I found that over time, anybody who has set a goal usually will reach it. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy. But most people do reach those goals.”

Counterterrorism isn’t just the stuff of spy novels—it’s a masterclass in thinking fast, adapting faster, and staying cool when everything’s on fire (sometimes literally). This episode unpacks the high-stakes world of counterterrorism operations and draws surprisingly practical lessons for navigating the chaos of entrepreneurship. If you’ve ever wondered what hostage negotiations and scaling a business have in common, this one’s for you.

Our guest delivers jaw-dropping stories from his time as a State Department counterterrorism agent, including moments of brilliance, catastrophic missteps, and everything in between. He breaks down how making decisions under pressure, owning your failures, and building strong, adaptable teams are critical—whether you’re chasing terrorists or chasing quarterly goals. Spoiler alert: it’s all about playing the long game and knowing when to pivot.

Fred Burton is a former State Department special agent, bestselling author, and all-around expert in counterterrorism and crisis management. His books, Beirut Rules, Ghost, and Chasing Shadows, offer unmatched insights into the complexities of global security and leadership under fire. When he’s not sharing his wisdom, he’s probably plotting the next page-turner that’ll keep you up all night.

Expert action steps:

1. Stay Optimistic

Remember that no matter how challenging the situation, tomorrow is a new day with new opportunities.

2. Set Clear Goals

Establish meaningful objectives and stay committed to them. While the journey may be difficult, persistence often leads to success.

3. Support Others

Offer encouragement and advice to those who may need it. Helping others can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth.

Learn more and connect:

You can find information about Fred’s books, upcoming events, latest news, and contact details on his official website: https://www.officialfredburton.com/.

1. Beirut Rules by Fred Burton

https://a.co/d/cFt9K27

2. Ghost by Fred Burton

https://a.co/d/9odzHGj

3. Chasing Shadows by Fred Burton

https://a.co/d/a38m8e3

4. Area 51 by Annie Jacobsen

https://www.amazon.com/Area-51-Uncensored-Americas-Mystery/dp/0316132942

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