The Shawn Ryan Show

Joe Lonsdale, a prominent technology entrepreneur and co-founder of Palantir, dives into the realm of military innovation. He discusses the challenges posed by drone technology and presents the groundbreaking Leonidas weapon system designed for counter-drone operations. Lonsdale also explores the significance of directed energy weapons in national defense and the vital need for ethical oversight in tech advancements. He critiques U.S. reliance on foreign manufacturing and emphasizes the necessity for innovation in tackling global threats.

Rick Ross, a leading authority on cults and founder of the Cult Education Institute, shares his expertise on the dark world of manipulative groups. He dives into the psychological tactics used by cults to manipulate and control their members, revealing the personal struggles faced by those trying to escape. Ross discusses the alarming realities of child exploitation within cults like the Children of God and the Jehovah's Witnesses. He also highlights the modern recruitment strategies of these groups, especially in the era of social media.

Explore Captain Bradley Geary's intense journey for justice after a controversial SEAL training incident. The podcast reveals the hurdles he faced during the investigation and the pivotal support from legal advocates. Hear how grassroots efforts played a crucial role in securing his honor and navigating the murky waters of military accountability. It's a gripping tale of resilience and the fight for truth.

Sarah Adams, a former CIA officer and co-author of "Benghazi: Know Thy Enemy," dives deep into the complexities of global security. She discusses alarming intelligence gaps and reveals how funding issues bolster terrorism, particularly involving the Taliban and Al Qaeda. Adams sheds light on Hamza bin Laden’s ambitions and the challenges of abandoned allies. Drawing on historical events, she urges listeners to reconsider overlooked threats while emphasizing the urgent need for personal preparedness in a world where geopolitical tensions are rising.

Alan C. Mack, a retired U.S. Army Master Aviator and author of "Razor 03: A Night Stalker’s Wars," shares gripping tales from his years as a Night Stalker pilot. He dives into significant missions like rescuing Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell and reflects on the camaraderie and chaos in combat aviation. With a mix of humor and heart, Mack discusses balancing military life and family commitments, the emotional toll of deployments, and personal challenges, offering insights into resilience and leadership forged in the face of adversity.

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist and professor at Stanford, shares his insights on mental health and neuroscience. He delves into the impact of social media on youth mental health and discusses sleep hygiene practices. Listeners will discover practical sleep hacks and breathing techniques to enhance well-being. Huberman also explores the fascinating advancements in neurotechnology, like Neuralink's vision restoration efforts, and reflects on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for mental health recovery.

In this engaging discussion, Blake Cook, a former U.S. Army infantryman and law enforcement officer, delves into the evolving challenges faced by police today, including rising crime rates and societal perceptions. He shares his insights on the necessity of crisis training and the importance of a 'Protector Mindset' in law enforcement. Notably, humorous stories from his experiences highlight the unpredictability of policing. Cook emphasizes the need for enhanced training and psychological support for officers as they navigate the complexities of modern policing.

Mike Glover, a former Green Beret and CIA contractor, shares gripping tales from his deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq. He discusses the emotional turmoil of wanting to rejoin the military after 9/11 and the challenges he faced in leadership roles. From intense training experiences to reflecting on close quarters battle, Glover dives deep into camaraderie and personal growth during combat. He also emphasizes the importance of personal defense training and medical preparedness, offering essential tips for emergency situations.

Angela Ford, a remarkable remote viewer who worked with the CIA's Project Stargate and the U.S. Army, shares her extraordinary experiences in tracking spies and fugitives. She discusses the intriguing concepts of remote viewing and telepathy, emphasizing personal anecdotes and the complexities of psychic abilities. Ford also reflects on her unconventional path in military intelligence as a woman, integrating her unique intuitions with traditional methods. The conversation highlights the historical significance of remote viewing and its implications in modern intelligence.

In this conversation, Erik Bethel, a financier and diplomat with a rich background at the World Bank, dives into the intersection of finance and technology. He discusses the perplexities of data privacy concerning TikTok and the evolution of the World Bank in tackling global issues. Bethel also warns about the risks of central bank digital currencies and shares insights on China's influence in geopolitics and global finance. Personal anecdotes unveil his family's journey from Cuba, illuminating resilience amidst challenges and a unique perspective on America's economic future.