Shawn Ryan Show

Major Joshua Mast, a U.S. Marine Corps officer known for his legal battle to adopt an Afghan war orphan, shares his deeply personal journey. Joined by his wife Stephanie, they discuss the challenges faced during their almost five-year fight for custody against a terrorist organization. The couple highlights their reliance on faith and community support, navigating bureaucratic obstacles in a quest for the child's safety. Their story sheds light on moral dilemmas in military operations and the emotional weight of advocating for vulnerable lives amidst chaos.

Jared Hudson is a former Navy SEAL and sniper, and the founder of Covenant Rescue Group, focusing on combatting human trafficking and child exploitation. He shares harrowing insights into the hidden realities of trafficking and the psychological barriers faced by victims. Hudson emphasizes the importance of faith and community engagement in tackling these issues. The discussion dives into law enforcement strategies against online exploitation and legal complexities in prosecuting child crimes, shedding light on the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures.

Travis Haley, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and founder of Haley Strategic Partners, shares his riveting experiences from battlefields and private military contracting with Blackwater USA. He discusses mental health challenges faced by veterans, advocating for more nuanced support systems. The dialogue also explores the healing potential of psychedelics, personal growth through resilience, and the nuances of decision-making in high-stress environments. Haley reflects on legacy, vulnerability, and the emotional complexities of military life, emphasizing the importance of connection.

Palmer Luckey, an entrepreneur known for founding Oculus VR and Anduril Industries, dives into the future of military technology. He discusses groundbreaking advancements in AI and exoskeletons that enhance soldier capabilities. The conversation also touches on the ethical implications of military tech and the importance of transparency in defense operations. Luckey shares insights on missile technology and the increasing role of private companies in national security. His vision of autonomous systems redefines modern warfare while emphasizing the need for oversight.

Mike Benz, Executive Director of the Foundation for Freedom Online, criticizes USAID's dual role in humanitarian efforts and covert political manipulation. He highlights how funding influences media narratives and electoral processes in countries like Romania and Pakistan. The discussion also examines the government funding's impact on media independence, alongside the need for reforms to ensure accountability. Benz brings attention to the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and calls for ethical considerations in foreign aid, emphasizing the importance of integrity in both media and government actions.

Vivek Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and political figure, discusses his campaign for Ohio governor and innovative tax reforms aimed at revitalizing the state. He emphasizes the urgency of educational reform, advocating for merit-based teacher pay and educational choice, including homeschooling. Ramaswamy explores Ohio's potential as a hub for innovation in AI and biotech, while tackling financial pressures faced by citizens. He also critiques the 'victimhood culture' and promotes a return to meritocracy and excellence in American society.

Luis Elizondo, a former U.S. Army intelligence officer known for his insights on UFO phenomena, dives deep into military programs investigating UAPs. He discusses the X-15 rocket plane's legacy and its ties to national security. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for transparency about government involvement in UAP research and challenges the historical secrecy surrounding extraterrestrial encounters. Elizondo also touches on personal resilience and the intricate connections between consciousness and emerging technologies, urging a reevaluation of our understanding of the unknown.

Lindy Li, a former campaign advisor now co-chairing the Justice Unites Us Super PAC, discusses her journey from Democrat to conservative. She critiques Biden's cognitive abilities and the Democratic Party's leadership, highlighting hypocrisy within their ranks. Li shares insights on gun control and immigration, reflecting on her experiences as an immigrant. The conversation touches on the influence of money in politics, media bias, and the emotional toll of political alienation, all while injecting humor and personal anecdotes.

Diana Pasulka, a professor of religious studies and author, delves into the intriguing intersections of religious history and UFO phenomena. She discusses how belief in extraterrestrial life intertwines with modern and traditional religions. The conversation explores the evolution of purgatory, philosophical dimensions of spirituality, and the cultural implications of psychedelic experiences. Pasulka also shares her personal journey from skepticism to embracing UFO realities, revealing how historical narratives reshape our understanding of the unexplained.

Chris Bledsoe, a UFO encounter claimant and author of "UFO of GOD," shares his astounding experiences since a life-changing 2007 sighting. He discusses how this encounter not only healed his Crohn's disease but also led to profound spiritual awakenings and reflections on life's eternal nature. Bledsoe recounts ongoing mysterious phenomena at his home, including messages from glowing beings and near-death experiences that reshaped his understanding of reality and faith, intertwining personal trauma with extraordinary encounters.