Shawn Ryan Show

Nick Kefalides, a former Marine Raider and entrepreneur, shares his powerful journey of trauma and recovery. He candidly discusses his transformative experiences with psychedelics alongside Shawn, emphasizing how these moments reshaped their friendship. The duo reflects on the importance of vulnerability and emotional connection in healing. They also explore the transition from military service to entrepreneurship, highlighting the struggles veterans face in navigating life insurance. Their conversation underscores the journey from turmoil to personal growth.

Ryan Montgomery, the world's top ethical hacker and child safety advocate, shares his mission to expose online child predators. He discusses shocking statistics on child exploitation and recounts a live sting operation that exposed a predator in under a minute. Ryan emphasizes the need for parental awareness and the importance of ethical hacking in protecting children. He shares his personal journey from addiction to cybersecurity, highlighting the vital role of community support in combating both addiction and child exploitation.

In this engaging conversation, Prime Hall, a MARSOC Raider turned coach and innovator, shares his gripping journey from the battlefield to civilian life. He delves into the unique bonds formed with Afghan partners amid the chaos of combat, particularly during insider attacks that changed military protocols. Prime also candidly discusses his battle with PTSD and transformative healing experiences, including alternative therapies. Now, he’s channeling his passion into training Olympians and growing the Underwater Torpedo League, bringing a fresh perspective to resilience and recovery.

Prime Hall, a former Marine Raider with 12 years of service, now serves as a coach and consultant. He candidly discusses his traumatic childhood that influenced his military journey. Hall shares gripping stories from his time in Iraq and the demanding training to become a Marine Raider. He explores the heavy toll of leadership failures and personal struggles while emphasizing the importance of resilience and healing. Through his experiences, he inspires others to confront trauma and find hope in transformation.

Yeonmi Park, an activist and author who escaped North Korea and survived sex trafficking, shares her gripping story of resilience. She details her traumatic childhood filled with starvation and oppression while painting a vivid picture of daily life under a totalitarian regime. Yeonmi bravely discusses her harrowing escape and the exploitation she faced in China. With a focus on educating others, she warns about the subtle signs of communism re-emerging, urging listeners to remain vigilant about freedom and individual rights.

David McCormick, former CEO of Bridgewater Associates and author, shares insights on America's decline and the pressing need for renewal. He discusses the threats posed by China's technological rise and critiques the infiltration of progressive ideologies in institutions. McCormick emphasizes the importance of a skilled workforce and the need for educational reforms to bolster competitiveness. He also advocates for strategic U.S. policies on global tensions, particularly regarding Ukraine and China, stressing leadership and innovation as keys to restoring American strength.

Andrew Bustamante, a former CIA officer and expert on China, returns to unpack the complexities of U.S.-China relations. He discusses the imminent threat of China’s ambitions toward Taiwan, along with recent incidents like the Spy Balloon controversy. Diving into geopolitical strategies, Bustamante highlights the Belt and Road Initiative and its implications for global security. He also addresses the dangers of foreign influence in American society through platforms like TikTok. A gripping exploration of espionage, power dynamics, and the future of international relations awaits!

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Bustamante, a former Air Force Combat Veteran and CIA Intelligence Officer, unpacks his journey from military service to intelligence work. He discusses the alarming geopolitical shifts shaped by the Russia-Ukraine conflict and China's ascent as a superpower. Bustamante offers insights on media propaganda, U.S. foreign policy, and the intricate dynamics behind modern warfare. With a mix of personal anecdotes and candid opinions, he reveals the hidden truths regarding global tensions and their implications for America.

Chris VanSant, a former Delta Force operator involved in the capture of Saddam Hussein, shares gripping insights from the Iraq invasion. He recounts intense firefights against overwhelming odds and the emotional toll of combat, including survivor's guilt. VanSant discusses his transformative experiences with psychedelics for mental health and emphasizes the importance of community support for veterans. His journey from military operations to focusing on healing highlights the ongoing struggles and resilience of those who serve.

Chris VanSant, a former Delta Force operator and Army Ranger, shares his riveting journey through 20 years of military service, including the capture of Saddam Hussein. He discusses the intense Delta Force training, the camaraderie formed in high-pressure environments, and the emotional challenges faced during deployment. With insights on military leadership and mentorship, Chris reflects on the influence of family and personal struggles that shaped his path. Now dedicated to veteran mental health, he emphasizes the importance of support and resilience.