Underground Strategy

Welcome back to the second episode of our limited series on the making of Number 788, hosted and produced by South African media figure Desmond Latham. This in-depth series explores the experiences that led Max Lauker, co-authored with Tony Garcia, to write Number 788: My Experiences in Swedish Special Operations. This episode dives into Max’s journey from early training in the Swedish Armed Forces to unexpected assignments, shedding light on the rigorous world of special operations and the mental challenges it demands.Starting with why he was inspired to finally put his experiences to paper, Max recounts his first exposure to military life and the initial stages of training with Swedish Special Purpose Units. In conversation with Des, he shares insights into the mental resilience and adaptability required to transition from basic training to an advanced special operations unit. Max recalls the reality of special operations training, breaking down misconceptions and explaining how long hours, grit, and relentless training formed the backbone of his career.This episode also delves into unique training experiences abroad with British and French forces, where Max was exposed to live operations in high-risk environments across Europe. Desmond Latham’s thoughtful questions highlight the high stakes and intensity of these early operations, revealing the human element behind the tactical roles Max played.In this candid conversation, Des guides listeners through Max’s reflections on the shift from training to real-world missions, touching on the stoic mentality required to thrive in high-stakes situations and the adjustments made when theory meets reality.The discussion sets the stage for the next episode, where Max will delve into his work hunting down terrorist networks across Europe.Desmond Latham, celebrated for his History of South Africa podcast, brings his keen insights and extensive experience to Underground Strategy. This collaboration offers a unique perspective on the experiences that shaped Number 788, making for an engaging, immersive series.Links:Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/History of South Africa Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uDa0tQjGe3GpFKDGjMMAm?si=2d2812af232742daNumber 788 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Underground Strategy, we welcome Hex, a former operations officer in the South African Navy with 18 years of specialized experience in electronic warfare, now known as electromagnetic warfare. With a career rooted in cyber and electronic security strategies, Hex has a unique skill set that merges military precision with cutting-edge cybersecurity techniques.After completing his MBA, Hex made the transition from military operations to the FinTech world, where he currently serves as the Security and Fraud Manager at Kazang. His work focuses on securing micro-payments for South Africa’s informal sectors, overseeing everything from threat detection and anomaly detection to robust cyber protection protocols. Hex's goal is to bridge the gap between traditional financial services and underserved communities, bringing security to vulnerable transactions.Join us as we dive into Hex’s fascinating journey, from military tactics to modern-day cybersecurity, and how his expertise is being applied to safeguard financial services in a rapidly changing digital world.Tune in for an insightful discussion that bridges the worlds of military operations and modern FinTech cybersecurity! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re thrilled to introduce a new limited series on Underground Strategy—an in-depth exploration into the making and the mind behind Number 788, authored by Max Lauker and co-authored by Tony Garcia. Hosted and produced by South African media figure Desmond Latham, this series offers listeners an inside look at the origins, experiences, and challenges that shaped this compelling story of courage and covert operations.Number 788 details Max Lauker’s journey from reluctant soldier to highly skilled ranger, excelling in reconnaissance, intelligence, and covert operations. The book recounts his unique experiences during a pivotal time in history, from post-Cold War training through the War on Terror. Max shares not only his professional journey but the personal struggles and moral complexities that come with a life lived in the shadows.In this premiere episode, Desmond Latham—a well-known broadcaster and host of the top-ranked History of South Africa podcast—delves into the foundations of Number 788. As Desmond leads the conversation, Max reveals how his experiences in the Swedish Armed Forces, primarily with Special Purpose Units under the Norrland Dragoon Regiment, shaped the book’s powerful narrative. With deployments across Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and the former Eastern Bloc, Max recounts a life dedicated to intelligence and covert operations. Desmond’s skillful interviewing brings to light the stories, risks, and human elements behind Max’s career, creating a vivid picture of the complex world of covert warfare.Desmond Latham, who has achieved over 500,000 listens on The History of South Africa podcast, brings his well-honed historical insights and broadcasting expertise to Underground Strategy. We’re delighted to work with such a respected voice in the industry, and this series marks an exciting collaboration that digs deep into the reality of modern military life.This limited series is designed to bring Number 788 to a wider audience, uncovering the lessons, revelations, and experiences that define the book. Join us as we explore the journey of a soldier who became a silent mediator between light and shadow, forever changed by his place in the complex history of Western and Nordic special operations.Links:Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/History of South Africa Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uDa0tQjGe3GpFKDGjMMAm?si=2d2812af232742daNumber 788 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 10: War and Peace with Peter de ClercqIn this episode of Underground Strategy, we had the honor of hosting Peter de Clercq, a Dutch diplomat who has spent over 35 years working at the highest levels of the United Nations, including as Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM). His extensive experience includes working in conflict-affected countries such as Somalia, Sudan, and Haiti, where he has dedicated his career to improving conditions for the most vulnerable populations.Although Peter is formally retired from his UN roles, he remains deeply involved in promoting inclusion, rights, and opportunities for those impacted by war. In this episode, Peter shares his insights into leadership, peacebuilding, and the challenges the UN faces in war-torn regions.We discuss how diplomacy plays a crucial role in creating the conditions for peace during violent conflict and rebuilding societies afterward. It was a great conversation, and we’re looking forward to welcoming Peter back for a follow-up episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 9: Military Logistics – The Backbone of WarfareIn this episode of Underground Strategy, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia take a deep dive into one of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of military success: logistics. As the saying goes, "Amateurs talk tactics, but professionals talk logistics." Throughout history, the ability to keep armies supplied has been the difference between victory and defeat.Max and Tony explore the importance of logistics in warfare, drawing on historical examples from Napoleon's disastrous Russian campaign to the logistical challenges that crippled the German forces in North Africa during World War II. They discuss how even the most brilliant strategies can falter without a well-organized supply chain, and how logistics continues to play a pivotal role in modern military operations.Join Max and Tony, in the rear with the gear, as they highlight the unsung hero of military success and give listeners a fresh perspective on the true importance of logistics in warfare.Take a look at Max Lauker´s biography Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Underground Strategy, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia take a closer look at Private Military Companies (PMCs)—the organizations providing military services ranging from logistical support to armed security. As modern warfare evolves, PMCs have become a powerful and controversial force in global conflicts.Max and Tony explore the advantages, challenges, and ethical dilemmas surrounding PMCs, discussing their impact on traditional military forces, their role in international conflicts, and why governments and corporations rely on them. While not diving too deep into specific firms, this episode provides a broad overview of how these companies operate and their growing significance in modern warfare.If you’ve ever been curious about the shadowy world of PMCs, this episode offers a compelling introduction to their influence on global security.Recommended readingExecutive Outcomes: Against All Odds by Eeben Barlow - https://amzn.to/4hRT4krComposite Warfare: The Conduct of Successful Ground Force Operations in Africa by Eeben Barlow - https://amzn.to/4ijPPC9We Were Blackwater by Barrie Rice - https://amzn.to/3XhHFlmMore from Underground StrategyDiscover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Join the mission - https://undergroundstrategy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cold. Brutal. Unforgiving. Winter changes everything in war.From historical battles to personal experiences, we break down what makes winter warfare so uniquely challenging. How do freezing conditions impact soldiers, strategy, and equipment? What have armies throughout history done to survive and fight in extreme cold?And most importantly—will Max finally get the name of NATO’s new Secretary General right this time?Whether you’re prepping for a winter deployment (or just a cold day), this episode has something for everyone. Grab your hot chocolate and settle in!Good reading on winter warfare:The White Sniper: Simo Häyhä - https://amzn.to/4buzkkxMountain Warfare and Cold Weather Operations - https://amzn.to/3EO3VNnMore from Underground Strategy:Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Join the mission - https://undergroundstrategy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Extra Episode: The Book is Finally Here!It’s not just any episode—this is a special edition of the Underground Strategy podcast, and it’s all about our new book! We know, we know, you’ve heard us talk about it before, but now you can actually get your hands on it. And what better way to celebrate than with a quick chat about it!Oh, and if you're looking for a good laugh and a good read, you can grab the book on Amazon. We've got links below:Grab your copy here:Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7We promise it’s worth it—just for the stories we couldn't fit into the podcast!And for our dedicated listeners, since this is an extra episode, you’ll still get your regular dose of Underground Strategy every Sunday. This one's just a bonus! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 5: The Home Front in Ukraine with Kostiantyn KoshelenkoIn this episode of Underground Strategy, we are honored to be joined by Kostiantyn Koshelenko, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Social Policy and Digital Transformation. Kostia shares valuable insights into his role on the Home Front, offering a unique perspective on how Ukraine is navigating the challenges of war from both a governmental and digital standpoint.Kostia shares his thoughts on leadership, how digital transformation is shaping Ukraine’s efforts during the war, and the ways both the government and private sectors are tackling the immense challenges they’re facing together.You can explore more about Kostia’s experiences and strategies in his book:Management in Times of War: Leadership Examples from Ukraine’s Government and Private Sector – Available on Amazon - https://amzn.to/41SD6kQConnect with Kostiantyn Koshelenko:Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine | LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kostiantyn-koshelenkoKostiantyn Koshelenko on X:https://twitter.com/k_koshelenkoKostiantyn Koshelenko on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/k_koshelenkoUkrainian Resources:Digital Ukraine:https://ukraine.uaGood Deeds - About Us:https://good-deeds.ua Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 4: Weaponry Deep Dive with Vapenkunskap (Weapons Knowledge)In this episode, we go full nerd with Vapenkunskap (Weapons Knowledge), diving deep into the details of weaponry. From the legendary Kalashnikov to cutting-edge developments, this conversation takes us across the globe as we explore the world of firearms and tactics.Check out Vapenkunskap’s brilliant insights on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vapenkunskap/We also touch on some key topics, including:The Kalashnikov: Learn more here: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/AK-47Sweden’s AK 5 D: Featured on the cover of Max’s book Number 788: My Experiences in Swedish Special Operations: https://www.helion.co.uk/military-history-books/number-788-my-experiences-in-swedish-special-operations-preparing-for-nato-and-the-war-on-terror.phpThe development of the AK 5: Read more about Sweden’s standard assault rifle here: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatkarbin_5Green ammunition: A fascinating discussion on environmentally friendly ammo: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_bulletGreen soldiering in South Africa: Tony reflects on the country’s green approach to soldiering: http://www.enviropaedia.com/topic/default.php?topic_id=128And last but not least, don’t be like Max and Tony—read the manual before all else fails. As recommended by Vapenkunskap, check out the Swedish Mauser manual here: http://pdf.textfiles.com/manuals/FIREARMS/swede_m38-m41b-m96.pdfFor more on Underground Strategy, visit: https://undergroundstrategy.comFor Max book number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.