Jocko Podcast 519: A Soldier’s Pain, Purpose, and the Brotherhood That Endures. Crazy Joe Claburn Pt.2
30 snips
Dec 17, 2025 
Crazy Joe Claiborne, a retired U.S. Army officer and combat veteran, shares his extraordinary journey from a catastrophic parachute injury to overcoming immense odds. He discusses the power of recovery, the importance of fatherhood, and the lasting bonds of brotherhood among soldiers. Joe reflects on the heart-wrenching loss of his friend, Seth Stone, and emphasizes the duty to honor fallen warriors. Now a teacher and advocate for veterans, he inspires with his insights on resilience, leadership, and finding purpose beyond military service.
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Stranded In England, Found Brotherhood
- Joe arrived in England alone, got stranded at Heathrow on a holiday, and navigated to Colchester using a paper map and a rental car. He integrated into the British officer mess and formed a close bond with a mentor he called the Bevster.
Car Rollover In Belize, Kept Training
- While on British training in Belize Joe survived a violent car rollover that left him concussed, with broken ribs and a compressed spine. He still pushed to join jungle training and completed the course despite significant injuries.
Recovery Like A System Reboot
- Joe's spinal injury was cauda equina syndrome, which acts like a system reboot where nerves slowly come back online. He compares recovery to a computer booting in safe mode, restarting one program at a time.